Arokodare targets goals and trophies after sealing Ajax loan from Wolves

Nigeria striker Tolu Arokodare says he “can’t wait to get started” after completing a season-long loan move to Ajax from Wolverhampton Wanderers, in a deal that includes an option to buy for about €22m.

The Super Eagles forward described becoming an Ajax player as “an amazing feeling” and outlined his ambition to fire the Dutch club back towards the top of the Eredivisie table.

“I’m currently a player of Ajax. Because it’s just an amazing feeling, like I said. I never imagined, but… it’s just an amazing feeling,” Arokodare said after the move was confirmed.

“There’s been so many big names that have played here, so many big strikers that have played for this team that have really represented the team well, and we know about the amazing and huge talents that they can produce.

“So, I can’t wait to get started, get going with the team, with the players, hopefully score some goals, win games and get back to being at the top of the table.”

The loan gives Ajax the option to make the transfer permanent at the end of the season for around €22m, reflecting the Dutch side’s belief that Arokodare can add firepower to their attack.

From Wolves struggles to Amsterdam opportunity

Arokodare heads to Amsterdam after a difficult spell at Wolverhampton Wanderers, where he was unable to replicate his previous form.

He joined Wolves from Genk in a transfer worth £24m but struggled to establish himself as a consistent performer in the Premier League. Across the campaign he managed three league goals, as Wolves were relegated from the top flight.

The move to Ajax offers the former Genk forward a fresh start at one of Europe’s most prestigious clubs, renowned for developing attacking talent and giving young forwards regular playing time.

Ajax, traditionally among the contenders for the Eredivisie title, will look to Arokodare to contribute goals and competition for places in their forward line as they aim to return to the summit of Dutch football.

Continuing Super Eagles tradition at Ajax

Arokodare’s arrival also extends a long-standing Nigerian connection with Ajax. His switch makes him the eighth Super Eagles player to represent the Amsterdam giants.

He follows in the footsteps of Finidi George and Nwankwo Kanu, who were part of Ajax’s celebrated mid-1990s side, as well as Christopher Kanu, Sunday Oliseh, Tijani Babangida, Pius Ikedia and Calvin Bassey.

That history was not lost on Arokodare as he reflected on joining a club with a strong track record of Nigerian talent and a storied list of centre-forwards who have worn the shirt.

By stressing his desire to score goals, win matches and help Ajax “get back to being at the top of the table”, the Super Eagles striker has made clear that both his personal and collective targets are firmly aligned with his new club’s ambitions.