Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare is closing in on a sensational permanent move to Dutch giants Ajax Amsterdam, with the club’s Technical Director, Jordi Cruyff, declaring that all arrangements for the transfer have already been concluded.
And the Nigerian marksman wasted no time justifying Ajax’s decision, producing a devastating performance on Thursday night, scoring twice and providing an assist as the Dutch giants demolished FC Midtjylland 6-1 in the UEFA Conference League.
Cruyff’s revelation, made barely 24 hours before Arokodare’s outstanding display in Denmark, has strengthened indications that Ajax are determined to secure the Nigerian international beyond his current season-long loan from English Premier League side Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The 25-year-old joined Ajax in the summer on a loan agreement that includes an option to make the transfer permanent, with the reported fee approaching €20m.
Speaking to Ziggo Sport, as reported by Complete Sports, Cruyff left little doubt about the club’s intentions when asked about the striker’s future.
“Everything has already been arranged,” the Ajax technical director declared.
Cruyff also revealed that Arokodare had jokingly requested an improved salary during his previous press conference, an indication of the confidence surrounding his growing status at the Amsterdam club.
The Ajax chief praised the Nigerian’s mentality, commitment and ability to adapt to the demands of the team.
“He has a good mentality, he’s a team player, and that’s important,” Cruyff said.
However, he cautioned that a striker’s form can fluctuate, suggesting that consistency would remain important as Arokodare continues his development.
MIDTJYLLAND SUFFERS AS AROKODARE RUNS RIOT
If Ajax needed another reason to complete the deal, Arokodare supplied it in emphatic fashion at the MCH Arena.
The Super Eagles forward opened the scoring after just 10 minutes, giving Ajax an early advantage before Midtjylland fought back to level the contest.
But Arokodare returned in the 52nd minute to restore Ajax’s lead, displaying the predatory instinct and composure that have made him one of the club’s most dangerous attacking weapons.
Seven minutes later, he turned provider, setting up Owen Wijndal for Ajax’s third goal in the 59th minute.
The Nigerian’s double strike and assist helped ignite a six-goal demolition that left Midtjylland stunned at home, with Ajax running out commanding 6-1 winners.
The performance took Arokodare’s Conference League contribution to three goals and two assists in just three appearances this season.
More significantly, the brace lifted his overall tally to 12 goals in all competitions, further strengthening the argument for Ajax to exercise the permanent transfer option.
€20M QUESTION: WOLVES FACE AJAX DECISION
Arokodare’s explosive form has placed Ajax in a strong position to justify their reported €20m investment, although the final transfer fee could still become a point of negotiation if Wolves demand more than the agreed option.
The Nigerian joined the English club from Belgian side Genk before moving to Amsterdam on loan, but his rapid impact in the Netherlands has strengthened the case for a permanent departure from Molineux.
While Cruyff’s declaration suggests that the contractual arrangements on Ajax’s side are settled, the final transfer will depend on the precise terms of the loan agreement and the exercise of the purchase option.
For Ajax, securing a striker who has already delivered 12 goals represents an opportunity to stabilise their attacking department with a proven goal scorer.
For Arokodare, the proposed permanent switch would provide an opportunity to establish himself at one of Europe’s most historic clubs.
SUPER EAGLES GET MASSIVE BOOST
Beyond his club exploits, Arokodare’s resurgence represents a major boost for Nigeria’s Super Eagles as the country prepares for the November international fixtures, including the AFCON qualifiers against Tanzania.
His growing confidence, improved scoring rhythm and ability to contribute beyond goals provide Nigeria with another attacking weapon.
With Ajax scheduled to face Twente on Sunday before the international break, Arokodare will have another opportunity to underline his importance to the Dutch side.
For now, the message from Amsterdam is unmistakable: Ajax want to keep the Nigerian goal machine, and after his latest European masterclass, few performances could make their decision ea
