Why Tolu Arokodare could be Man United’s €18m bargain of the summer – 5 key reasons

Super Eagles star Tolu Arokodare has recently piqued the interest of English Premier League clubs, including Man United…

Manchester United are entering a new era under INEOS, and while the club has already made waves with the signings of Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, they are in search of a reliable striker, Soccernet.ng reports.

Rasmus Hojlund struggled last season with just four Premier League goals, and Joshua Zirkzee remains an unconvincing long-term option.

While big-money names like Viktor Gyökeres and Victor Osimhen have been linked elsewhere, the Red Devils appear to be shifting focus to more value-based signings.

Friendly match between the national football teams of Russia and Nigeria. BSA Luzhniki Stadium, Moscow, June 6, 2025. In the photo: Tolu Arokodare [Photo Credit/ Imago].

One name now generating serious interest is Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare, who just enjoyed a breakout season with Belgian side Genk.

Here are five reasons why the €18 million-rated Nigerian may be the perfect fit:

1. Arokodare's €18 million Value is Budget Friendly

Arokodare is currently valued at €18 million, which is nothing compared to the €60–100 million price tags attached to players like Osimhen, Benjamin Sesko, or Ollie Watkins.

With INEOS reportedly keen on avoiding bloated fees, the Super Eagles attacker is an excellent buy, especially for a player coming off a 30-goal involvement season.

Although Genk may demand closer to €25 million due to rising interest, even at that price, it is a smart investment for Manchester Club.

Nigeria Super Eagles stars Jordan Torunarigha and Tolu Arokodare. Photo by IMAGO

2. The Super Eagles Star's Goal-Scoring Form

The 24-year-old forward was on fire last season, scoring 23 goals and registering 7 assists in 45 matches across all competitions for Genk.

Just last season, Arokodare followed in the footsteps of Victor Ikpeba and Paul Onuachu to clinch the Ebony Shoe—which celebrates the best African player in the Belgian league.

Toluwalase Arokodare poses for the photographer during the 2025 edition of the Gala of the Ebony Shoe soccer trophy in Brussels. [Photo Credit/ Imago].

United desperately need a striker who can convert chances, and Arokodare's stats prove he can deliver.

3. Man United's Premier League Feature

Standing at 6 ft 4, Arokodare has the height, strength, and aerial ability to thrive in English football.

He plays with his back to the goal, holds off defenders well, and is dangerous on set pieces. Without a single doubt, these are qualities that fit into the Premier League style. So, for the Red Devils, Arokodare ticks the box.

4. Arokodare Fits INEOS’s Long-Term Plan

INEOS have made it clear they want to rebuild Manchester United with a focus on youth, potential, and long-term value.

Nigeria Super Eagles and KRC Genk star Tolu Arokodare [Photo credit/IMAGO]

The 24-year-old aligns perfectly with this model. He’s not a quick fix, though, but he’s a talent who can be moulded into a Premier League star.

5. Genk Already Signed His Replacement

Timing is everything in football transfers, and the door may never be more open than it is now.

Genk have just signed Aaron Bibout from Sweden’s Vasteras SK,  a similar physical forward to the Nigerian. This suggests that the Belgian side are preparing for life after Arokodare’s exit. Thus, making room for a move to England should Manchester United be willing and ready to sign him.