On Wednesday night, when Forge beat Halifax by 2 goals to nil in Hamilton, there was a big absence in the home side: Kwasi Poku.

While it was first speculated that he was just being given some rest ahead of key matches in the month, head coach Bobby Smyrniotis was asked about his absence, to which he replied:

"Right now, there's quite a bit of interest for [Kwasi Poku] in the transfer market. We'll see where that lands."

A few days later, the first possible destination appeared in social media, as a Belgian journalist reported that RWD Molenbeek of the Challenger Pro League (2nd division in Belgium) were in discussions with Forge for the 21-year-old striker. Joshua Kloke of The Athletic later confirmed the reports.

The Belgian journalist also reported that both clubs had agreed a deal worth around $830,000 CAD, which would make it by far the biggest transfer fee in the Canadian Premier League's short history.

Kwasi will reportedly sign a 3-year contract with the Brussels-based club.


Kwasi Poku celebrating after scoring against Valour FC on June 23, 2024 (Photo credit: Jojo Yanjiao Qian/Forge FC)

Kwasi signed for the Hammers ahead of the 2022 season, making his official debut in a Concacaf Champions League match against Cruz Azul.

He originally played as a left back/left midfielder, but was recently moved to the striker role, where his rapid rise began. In his first match at the number 9 role, he scored the game-winning goal against none other than MLS side CF Montréal, eliminating them from the Voyageurs Cup in their own stadium.

He continued to start at his new position, scoring goals left and right and showing no signs of stopping. This season, he's scored 10 goals in 21 matches, also grabbing 2 assists and contributing to much more than just putting the ball in the back of the net.

Goals against MLS sides, his young age, his overall quality, etc... Kwasi will be one to look out for in the Canadian national team.