Burnley Pushing to Sign 24-year-old Striker in £25million Deal – Report | OneFootball

Burnley Eyeing Ambitious Strike Options for Premier League Return

Burnley are exploring a bold mix of striker options as they prepare for life back in the Premier League, with Genk’s powerful Nigerian frontman Tolu Arokodare emerging as a serious target. The 24-year-old has impressed in Belgium’s top flight and is now attracting Premier League interest, with Burnley reportedly among the most active clubs pursuing him.

As reported by Mike McGrath of The Telegraph, “There is understood to be serious interest in Arokodare, 24, who has an excellent record in the Belgian Pro League with Genk.” While negotiations continue, a valuation gap remains. Genk are seeking £25 million, which is considerably more than Burnley’s current expectations. However, with two years remaining on his contract, there is hope that the price may drop later in the window.

Burnley’s interest in Arokodare aligns with manager Scott Parker’s desire to bring in a leading No 9 to lead the line. After permanent deals for four key promotion players, Burnley are aiming for quality over quantity, especially up front.

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Free Agents Add Experience and Depth

In addition to overseas talent, Burnley are also in discussions regarding high-profile free agents, notably Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Callum Wilson and Jamie Vardy.

Calvert-Lewin, 28, has officially left Everton, with injuries having limited his impact in recent years. Nonetheless, his reputation remains intact after scoring the decisive goal that saved Everton from relegation in 2022. As McGrath states, “Clubs looking for firepower may consider him on an incentivised deal.”

Wilson, now 33, saw minimal action for Newcastle United last season but has consistently demonstrated his ability to find the net when fully fit. Despite ongoing talks over a new deal, nothing has yet been agreed.

Vardy, the most experienced of the trio, has confirmed his departure from Leicester City. Still clinical at 38, he’s said to be evaluating whether to start regularly or become an impact substitute at a top club. His availability offers Burnley the chance to inject proven pedigree into their forward line.

Continuity Behind the Reshuffle

Burnley’s squad-building strategy also shows lessons have been learned from the last Premier League campaign under Vincent Kompany. Unlike previous loans that thrived elsewhere, four of last season’s temporary signings have now been signed permanently.

Bashir Humphreys, Marcus Edwards, Jaidon Anthony and Zian Flemming have all joined permanently for a combined £33.4 million, ensuring the core that achieved promotion stays intact. As noted, Parker’s plan is to blend continuity with targeted upgrades.

Meanwhile, the club are also preparing for potential exits, with Max Weiss joining from Karlsruher to potentially replace James Trafford, who is in talks over a move to Newcastle.

Diouf, Tuanzebe and Hartman Bolster Key Areas

The club’s summer recruitment has also addressed defensive depth and midfield creativity. Axel Tuanzebe and Quilindschy Hartman bring versatility and international experience, while Lens midfielder Andy Diouf is another exciting prospect Burnley are chasing.

While Diouf’s deal is not yet finalised, his addition would represent a major coup. At just 22, he offers dynamism and technical flair that could prove vital in Parker’s system.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

For Burnley fans, this article provides real cause for optimism. After last season’s disappointment in the top flight, Scott Parker’s plan feels refreshing, measured and bold. Tolu Arokodare is the kind of powerful, exciting forward Turf Moor has been crying out for — young, hungry and battle-tested in European football.

The potential addition of someone like Calvert-Lewin or Wilson on a free transfer would be smart business. Sure, both have had fitness issues, but either could thrive in a system that plays to their strengths. As for Vardy, what a fairytale that would be — a Premier League icon coming in for one last charge, maybe even off the bench to grab a late winner at Turf Moor.

The fact we’re locking down players like Anthony and Flemming permanently is massive. No more seeing loanees light it up elsewhere. This time, they’re staying. Add in Tuanzebe’s experience, Hartman’s raw talent and the possibility of Andy Diouf pulling the strings in midfield, and you can’t help but feel we’re building something proper here.

Let’s just hope we get that No 9 sorted soon. Arokodare or one of the Prem vets — either would be a big statement.