Ajax have officially confirmed the signing of Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare after reaching an agreement with Wolverhampton Wanderers for a season-long loan deal that runs until the summer of 2027, with an option to make the transfer permanent.
The 25-year-old forward arrives in Amsterdam as Ajax strengthen their attacking options with one of Nigeria’s most promising strikers, adding size, experience and proven goalscoring quality to the squad ahead of the new campaign.
Arokodare offers Ajax a physical presence in attack, combining aerial dominance, strength and an eye for goal that the Dutch giants believe has been missing from their frontline.
Ajax Technical Director Jordi Cruijff believes the Nigerian international possesses the qualities needed to make an immediate impact.
“With Tolu, we are bringing in a striker with a profile we didn’t have in the squad yet. A physically strong player who has previously proven to be a goalscorer. We are confident that he will prove his worth to the team this coming season.”
The move also extends the proud tradition of Nigerian footballers representing Ajax, with Arokodare eager to create his own legacy at one of Europe’s most decorated clubs.
After completing the transfer, the striker admitted that wearing the famous Ajax shirt is something he never imagined growing up.
“It is amazing,” he begins. “I have known Ajax since I was a kid and I never thought I would ever play here. In Nigeria, not many people watch the Dutch league, but everyone knows Ajax. Playing here means I will join the ranks of great Nigerian players who have played here. It is a huge honor.”
Arokodare revealed that once he learned Ajax were interested, he became determined to make the transfer happen.
“That was because I had known about Ajax’s interest for a while. I couldn’t wait to finalize the deal and I kept putting pressure on my agent. I can’t wait to get started.”
He also admitted the opportunity initially came as a surprise.
“I had never suggested it, but when he told me, I thought it was great. It is the biggest team in the Netherlands and one of the biggest teams in European football. I can’t wait to be successful together.”
During his first interview as an Ajax player, Arokodare introduced himself to supporters while speaking about his background and ambitions.
“I am a striker and the youngest of four children. 197 centimeters tall, Nigerian, and I am Yoruba and also half Igbo. You can call me ‘T’,”
One of the biggest motivations behind the move is the opportunity to follow in the footsteps of Nigerian icon Nwankwo Kanu, whose success at Ajax helped launch a legendary career.
Speaking about the former Ajax star, Arokodare said:
“I had the honor of meeting him before,” Arokodare says about his compatriot. “He is a great legend, not only in Nigeria, not only in Africa, but in the football world. We know what he has done for the national team and for Ajax. It is nice to see a very familiar face, and hopefully my photos will end up on the wall here too.”
The Nigerian forward says supporters can expect a hardworking striker who enjoys linking up with teammates while remaining focused on scoring goals.
“I like to combine with my teammates and help the team in any way possible. I am a striker who just wants to play and keep scoring. Scoring is my job and that is why I am here. Hopefully, I can do that.”
He also explained the story behind his trademark goal celebration.
“The tea time celebration comes from my initials: T for Tolu, Emmanuel E, Arokodare A. That is TEA. That is why I always make a ‘T’ with my hands. That comes from my brother. He came up with it and it stuck.”
Arokodare acknowledged the expectations that come with playing for Ajax and insists he is determined to help the club compete for major honours again.
“I know that Ajax is a very ambitious club and the past season was not as successful as it normally goes, because Ajax always wants to be at the top,” he continues. “I know the goals and ambitions and, as I said, I want to achieve that together.”
The Super Eagles striker will wear the iconic No. 99 shirt, a number that has special meaning for him.
“It was my first number, and as a kid I saw Ronaldinho playing with it at AC Milan. It seemed pretty cool to me, and when I signed my first professional contract in Latvia, number 9 was taken.”
Looking ahead, the striker is excited to begin training with his new teammates and experience the atmosphere inside the Johan Cruyff Arena.
“I can’t wait to train with the guys and also to play for the fans in the amazing stadium.”
Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare has completed a season-long loan move to Ajax from Wolves, with an option to buy. The Nigerian forward hopes to follow in the footsteps of club legend Nwankwo Kanu.