Wolves have completed the signing of Tolu Arokodare from Genk for £23.4 million. The Nigerian international has signed a four-year deal and is expected to compete for a starting place in the team. Arokodare has stated his desire to play in England and is happy to have joined Wolves. The club beat competition from Newcastle, Marseille and Borussia Monchengladbach to secure the player’s signature.
Wolverhampton Wanderers have officially announced the acquisition of Nigerian international striker Tolu Arokodare, securing his services in a deal valued at £23.4 million. The 24-year-old forward has inked a four-year contract with the club, committing his future to Molineux until 2029. Arokodare's arrival is expected to bolster Wolves' attacking options and provide competition for Jorgen Strand Larsen in the starting lineup.
Arokodare's move to the Premier League marks a significant step in his burgeoning career. He joins Wolves with a reputation for being a prolific goalscorer, honed during his time in Belgium's Jupiler League. Standing tall at 6 feet 6 inches, Arokodare possesses a physical presence that makes him a formidable opponent for defenders. His aerial ability and clinical finishing are expected to add a new dimension to Wolves' attacking play.
Prior to his move to Wolves, Arokodare showcased his talents in the Belgian top flight, where he plied his trade for Genk. In 94 appearances in the Jupiler League, he registered an impressive 36 goals, solidifying his status as one of the league's most dangerous strikers. His performances in Belgium caught the attention of several clubs across Europe, but it was Wolves who ultimately won the race for his signature.
Arokodare's journey to the Premier League began in Latvia, where he played for Valmiera between 2019 and 2023. During his time in Latvia, he also experienced loan spells at FC Koln in Germany and Amiens in France, gaining valuable experience in different leagues and cultures. These experiences helped him develop his game and prepare him for the challenges of playing in one of the world's most competitive leagues.
The Nigerian international has previously expressed his desire to play in England, and Wolves have provided him with the platform to realize his ambition. Arokodare's arrival is a testament to Wolves' ambition to strengthen their squad and compete at the highest level. The club's management team has been impressed by his goalscoring record and believes that he has the potential to thrive in the Premier League.
Wolves reportedly faced stiff competition from other clubs for Arokodare's signature. Newcastle United were also said to be interested in the striker, while French club Marseille and German side Borussia Monchengladbach made late attempts to hijack the deal. However, Arokodare's preference was always to join Wolves, and he is eager to start his new chapter at Molineux.
Speaking to Wolves' official website, Arokodare expressed his excitement about joining the club. "It was time already. I had my mind set here, this is where I wanted to be," he said. "I played in Germany, France, Belgium, and I think it was just here missing, and finally I’m happy to be here." His enthusiasm and determination to succeed at Wolves will be welcomed by the club's fans, who are eagerly anticipating his debut.
Wolves' acquisition of Tolu Arokodare represents a significant investment in their attacking resources. The club's manager, Gary O'Neil, is expected to integrate him into the team quickly and utilize his strengths to their full potential. Arokodare's arrival will provide O'Neil with more options in attack and allow him to rotate his squad effectively. With his height, strength, and goalscoring ability, Arokodare is poised to make a significant impact at Wolves and help the club achieve its objectives.