Cape Town - Henry
Onyekuru has sounded a warning to clubs chasing his signature, saying
that he is at a time in his career where warming the bench is not an
option.
The 20-year old, fresh off a remarkable season for Belgian club Eupen which saw him net 24 goals in 41 matches, is reportedly being tracked by a number of English clubs, with Arsenal said to be the leading contender to secure his services.
Onyekuru confirmed on Saturday that an offer had been tabled by the Gunners, and spoke with much enthusiasm about a potential move that would see him in a position to emulate the career of his idol Thierry Henry.
However, in a recent interview with ESPN FC, the Nigerian-born forward was somewhat more coy on his future, clearly implying that negotiations for his signature will involve a guarantee that he will not a a bit-part player in the upcoming season.
"The first and most important thing for a player is to get playing time," The Jupiler Pro League's joint-top scorer said.
"I’m still young and I still have a long career to pursue but now I need to play.
"My agents are in talks with top clubs in the Premier League, Bundesliga, French league and others. If they accept our terms, then I’ll make a decision.
"It’s not just about going to a big club and sitting on the bench. It’s not good for me, or being loaned to a club where I won’t play or where I will struggle to play.
"The money can come later but for now, I just want to play to improve, not just to play for a big club," he added.