Tolu Arokodare: “This Is Where I Wanted to Be” – Wolves Seal £24m Deadline-Day Signing
Wolverhampton Wanderers have confirmed the capture of Nigerian striker Tolu Arokodare in a £24 million deal from Belgian club Genk, finalised on deadline day. The 24-year-old has signed a four-year contract at Molineux, with the option to extend for an additional season.
The towering forward, who stands at 6ft 6in, flew into England on Sunday morning after swiftly agreeing personal terms and completing his medical. His arrival bolsters Wolves’ attacking department as Vítor Pereira looks to strengthen his squad ahead of a demanding Premier League campaign.
A Proven Goalscorer
During his time at Genk, Arokodare built a reputation as one of the most dangerous strikers in the Belgian Pro League. Across 113 appearances, he scored 41 goals and provided 12 assists, with his breakout season coming in 2024/25 when he claimed the Belgian Golden Boot after netting 21 goals in the league and 23 in all competitions.
Despite a modest return of one goal in five matches so far this season, Wolves believe his combination of aerial dominance, physical presence, and improving finishing ability make him perfectly suited to English football.
“It Feels Amazing” – Arokodare on His Move
Speaking after completing his move, Arokodare expressed his excitement and sense of destiny about joining Wolves:
“It feels amazing. It did take a while, but I’m finally here, and I’m happy to be here. I didn’t need convincing. I know the history of the club and the players that have been here and how they’ve progressed to become better players. I like the project of the club, and that’s what I want for myself. I want to improve, I want to progress, and I want to help this team.”
The Nigerian forward also praised Wolves’ current crop of strikers, saying he expects to adapt quickly to the Premier League:
“I think I’ll fit in pretty good. If you look at the strikers we have now, we’re almost the same profile, so it won’t be difficult for me to adapt. You could see how good Jørgen Strand Larsen was last season, and I’m just here to contribute and give my best.”
International Pedigree
Arokodare has already broken into Nigeria’s senior squad, winning four caps and scoring his first international goal in June against Russia. He also played a key role in helping the Super Eagles secure qualification for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, underlining his growing importance at international level.
The Next Step in a European Journey
For Arokodare, Wolves marks the latest step in what has been a steady rise across Europe. Having previously played in Germany, France, and Belgium, he sees the Premier League as the missing piece in his career journey.
“It was time already. I had my mind set here — this is where I wanted to be. I played in Germany, France, Belgium, and I think only here was missing. Finally, I’m happy to be here. I think I’m strong, I’m fast. The first few games and weeks won’t be easy, but it’s a challenge I’m ready for.”
Wolves’ Ambition
The signing of Arokodare underlines Wolves’ determination to strengthen their attack and compete more consistently in the top half of the Premier League. With Strand Larsen impressing last season and Arokodare now added to the mix, Pereira has multiple options to rotate, especially with the physical demands of English football and cup competitions.
For the player himself, Wolves offers both a platform and a challenge: a chance to test himself against some of the world’s best defenders while also continuing the club’s tradition of developing talented strikers into Premier League stars.
As Arokodare settled into his new surroundings, his message to fans was clear:
“This is where I wanted to be. I’m here to give my all for this club.”