Ghana forward Jerry Afriyie completes five-year move to Genk

Ghana forward Jerry Afriyie has completed a move to Belgian club KRC Genk, signing a five-year contract after leaving Saudi Arabian side Al Qadsiah. The 19-year-old returns to Belgium following his loan spell with RAAL La Louviere.

Afriyie began his career at Ghanaian club Thoughts FC before moving to Al Qadsiah. He did not remain with the Saudi club immediately, instead starting a sequence of loans that took him to Spain and Belgium.

His first loan destination was CD Lugo in Spain. He later joined RAAL La Louviere, where his performances earned recognition during his return to Belgian football. The campaign established another opportunity for Afriyie in the country’s top division, this time with Genk.

Genk’s head of football, Dimitri de Conde, identified Afriyie’s energy and commitment as key qualities for the club. He also pointed to the forward’s speed, power, movement behind defensive lines and ability in one-on-one situations as attributes suited to Genk’s approach.

The club also views Afriyie as a player with room to develop. Genk intends to give him an environment in which he can continue progressing while contributing to the current squad. His age was highlighted as part of the long-term value attached to the signing.

Afriyie’s displays for his clubs and Ghana helped him win the Odartey Lamptey award as Ghana’s best young footballer of the year. He was involved during Ghana’s 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign but did not make the country’s final squad for the tournament in North America. His Genk move now gives him a fresh club platform in Belgium.