Genk Add Japanese Talent Yokoyama to Attack Amid Oh Hyeon-gyu Rise

KRC Genk have officially completed the permanent signing of Japanese forward Ayumu Yokoyama from Birmingham City, exercising a purchase option included in his initial loan agreement. The 22-year-old has signed a four-year contract, tying him to the Belgian club until the summer of 2029.

The announcement was made on June 25 via Genk's official website, confirming that Yokoyama will now be part of the club’s first-team squad from the 2024–25 season onward. The move marks a significant step forward in the career of the former Japan youth international, who arrived at Genk in January on loan and featured for their reserve side, Jong Genk, in the Belgian second tier.

“Ayumu has had time to adapt to our way of working and to local culture. He is technically skilled, fast, and – importantly – capable of scoring goals,” said Genk's Head of Football Dimitri de Condé. “We believe strongly in his further development and are excited to see him work with the first team.”

From Matsumoto to Belgium: Yokoyama’s Unorthodox Journey

Born in 2003, Yokoyama began his professional career with Matsumoto Yamaga in Japan’s second division, making his debut in 2021. However, his side was relegated that same season. Rather than faltering, he took the opportunity to develop further in the J3 League, registering 11 goals and 1 assist and establishing himself as a key player. This form earned him a move to J1 side Sagan Tosu, where he continued to grow despite limited minutes.

His potential caught the eye of English side Birmingham City, who brought him to the EFL League One club in the summer of 2024. Though opportunities were scarce in a side focused on promotion, he managed to score in both the FA Cup and EFL Trophy before making his final appearance in a league match against Exeter City.

With first-team chances drying up, Yokoyama accepted a loan switch to Genk's second team during the winter window. It was a bold move aimed at gaining valuable playing time and proving his ability in Europe.

Modest Stats, Promising Signs

While Yokoyama's statistics for Jong Genk were modest – 1 goal in 9 appearances – his performances were enough to convince the club’s coaching staff of his potential. Genk’s official release described him as a player “with the qualities and growth margin” that fit the club’s long-term vision.

This sentiment was echoed in Japanese and Korean media. Sports outlets in Japan highlighted Yokoyama’s determination to build a European career from the ground up, while Korean media pointed out the implications of his arrival on the squad dynamics at Genk – particularly in relation to South Korean international Oh Hyeon-gyu.

Eyes on the Main Stage: A New Chapter at Genk

Yokoyama will now compete directly with Oh Hyeon-gyu, who joined Genk ahead of the 2024–25 season and quickly became a key figure. The Korean forward scored 12 goals and provided 3 assists last season, delivering impressive output as a backup striker and earning the club’s confidence. Genk even rebuffed interest from Dutch champions Feyenoord, signalling their commitment to Oh as a future starter.

The Japanese forward, however, appears undeterred. His decision to make the move permanent suggests a strong desire to challenge for minutes at the highest level. While he is expected to begin the season as a rotational option – likely featuring in cup competitions or off the bench – his versatility across the forward line and willingness to adapt could prove valuable.

Yokoyama is capable of playing both as a left winger and a centre-forward, and his adaptability was evident during his time with Jong Genk. The club has high hopes that with further development, he can provide meaningful competition and contribute to the first team’s success in both domestic and European competitions.

As the new season approaches, all eyes will be on Genk's attacking depth, with Oh Hyeon-gyu poised to take centre stage and Ayumu Yokoyama stepping into the frame as an ambitious understudy ready to make his mark in Belgian football.