Arokodare vs Lukaku: Who should Beşiktaş sign in their search for a new striker?

Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare and Belgian star Romelu Lukaku are the two leading transfer targets as Beşiktaş step up plans to strengthen their attack ahead of the new Turkish Süper Lig season, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Istanbul giants are determined to rebuild after falling behind rivals Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe in recent campaigns. With new manager Vincenzo Italiano looking to add more goals and physical presence to his squad, Beşiktaş have been linked with two very different forwards; one entering his prime and another who has already built a world-class career.

Arokodare is reportedly one of Beşiktaş’s priority targets as the club looks to sign a striker capable of leading the line for years to come.

The 25-year-old Nigerian is attracting serious attention after his time with Wolverhampton Wanderers. Wolves suffered relegation from the Premier League to the Championship, with Arokodare keen to continue playing at a high level. The Super Eagles forward is, therefore, believed to be open to a move that would allow him to compete in European competitions.

Beşiktaş have already tested Wolves’ resolve by submitting an offer worth around €15 million, but the English club rejected the proposal. Wolves are understood to value the striker much higher and want around €25 million before allowing him to leave permanently as they try to recover a large part of the money invested in him.

The race for Arokodare is also becoming more competitive. Fellow Turkish club Trabzonspor have reportedly submitted an official loan proposal, while league rivals Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe have striker on their wishlist.

Beşiktaş have also used a unique strategy to strengthen their chances. Reports from Turkey claim the club sought the help of Nigerian football figures, including former Beşiktaş striker Daniel Amokachi and Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi, to provide positive references and encourage Arokodare to choose Istanbul if he decides to leave England.

Standing at 1.97 metres (6ft 6in), Arokodare offers impressive aerial ability, strength and a strong target-man presence. However, he managed only three goals in 33 appearances during Wolves’ difficult campaign, raising questions about whether he is ready to become the main striker for a club chasing trophies immediately.

Lukaku, the experienced alternative after Vlahović setback

While talks over Arokodare continue, Beşiktaş have also intensified their pursuit of Belgium international Romelu Lukaku.

The Turkish side shifted their attention to the 33-year-old after failing to land Serbian striker Dušan Vlahović. Italiano reportedly wants an experienced centre-forward capable of making an immediate impact, and Lukaku fits that profile.

Despite struggling with injuries during his spell at Napoli, Lukaku reminded everyone of his quality at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scoring three goals in five matches for Belgium. His performances have convinced Beşiktaş that he can still perform at the highest level.

Napoli are said to value Lukaku at around €10 million, but Beşiktaş hope to complete the transfer for closer to €5 million after opening negotiations with the Italian club.

Before moving forward with discussions, Beşiktaş carefully examined Lukaku’s recent medical and fitness reports because of concerns over his injury record. Club officials want to ensure he is physically ready to handle the demands of the Turkish season before committing to the deal.

The race is also complicated by interest from arch-rivals Fenerbahçe, who are reportedly exploring a move of their own. If Lukaku joins Beşiktaş, he is expected to become the club’s first-choice striker ahead of South Korean forward Oh Hyeon-gyu.

Arokodare or Lukaku? The transfer verdict

Although both players bring different strengths, they represent two very different transfer strategies for Beşiktaş.

Arokodare is eight years younger and still has his best football ahead of him. At 25, he offers long-term value and could develop into one of the league’s best strikers if given regular playing time. His height, physical strength and ability in the air make him a dangerous attacking option, while his age also means Beşiktaş could eventually sell him for a profit.

However, signing him would require a much larger financial commitment. Wolves remain firm on their valuation, while the striker’s wages would further increase the overall cost of the deal. His modest return of three goals last season also suggests he may need time to adapt before becoming a consistent scorer.

Lukaku, on the other hand, offers instant experience and proven quality. He has succeeded in the Premier League, Serie A and international football, and his recent World Cup performances showed he can still deliver on the biggest stage. Although injury concerns remain and his salary would likely be high, his lower transfer fee compared to Arokodare makes the deal more achievable.

With Beşiktaş aiming to challenge Galatasaray and Fenerbahçe immediately, Lukaku appears to be the safer short-term option. Arokodare may be the better long-term investment, but Lukaku’s experience, leadership and ability to deliver in pressure situations could give Beşiktaş the quickest route back into the Süper Lig title race.