Belgian media outlet Voetbalkrant has confirmed that representatives from Portuguese powerhouse Benfica have arrived in Belgium to begin negotiations with KRC Genk over a possible transfer for Toru Alokodare before the end of the January transfer window, reports PUNCH Sports Extra.

Alokodare has been Genk’s consistent top scorer this season, scoring 14 goals and providing six assists in 23 league games. His stellar performances are one of the reasons why the Limburgers are top of the Jupiler Pro League.

Belgium is known for letting go of its star players during the winter transfer window and it is not going to repeat the same mistakes of the past.

In 2023, Genk found itself in a similar situation and had to make the same decision. Limburgers released Paul Onuachu but lost the championship title as a result.

Genk is aiming to win some titles this season and manager Thorsten Fink wants to keep the Nigerian striker until at least next summer.

“Limburgers have title ambitions, but you can’t have an absolute powerhouse,” Vodtbarkland wrote.

“One of these absolute heavyweights is, of course, Tolu Alokodare. Thorsten Fink is terrified by the idea that the attacker might walk away. That’s exactly what the Portuguese media wants to know. SL Benfica has enquired about the Limburg striker.

“Portugal’s top clubs are currently preparing offers for the 24-year-old Nigerian. Transfermarkt estimates his market value at €9 million, but Dimitri de Conde expects at least double that.

The 24-year-old Nigerian striker has been in top form for Belgium this season and has attracted interest from across Europe. But he is currently undervalued. A loss this season would be a major blow to the team’s title ambitions.