Super Eagles: 2 factors that could convince Ajax to keep Arokodare

Super Eagles forward Tolu Arokodare has enjoyed an impressive start to life at Ajax Amsterdam and will be hoping to earn a permanent move to the Dutch club at the end of the season.

The 25-year-old joined Ajax on a season-long loan from English side Wolverhampton Wanderers in the summer and has already made a strong impression with his performances.

Arokodare endured a difficult 2025/26 campaign at Wolves, where he struggled to impress and eventually fell down the pecking order, and his lack of regular playing time was one of the reasons he sought an exit during the summer transfer window.

Since joining Ajax, the Super Eagles striker has scored eight goals and provided three assists in 13 appearances across all competitions.

His latest goal came in the midweek 2-0 victory over Atalanta in the UEFA Conference League, where he came off the bench to help Ajax secure their first European win of the season with a goal and an assist.

Despite his impressive start, questions remain over whether Arokodare will stay at the club beyond the current campaign. His performances have strengthened the case for a permanent move, but Ajax will have to decide whether to make his stay in Amsterdam a long-term arrangement.

What could convince Ajax to sign Arokodare permanently?

There were initial doubts about how the Super Eagles striker would fit into Ajax’s style of play. However, he has gradually silenced those concerns with his performances and has become an important attacking option for the Dutch side.

There are two factors that could push Ajax to a permanent deal for the 25-year-old.

1. Arokodare’s goalscoring form at Ajax

One major factor that could convince Ajax to sign Arokodare permanently is his impressive goalscoring form this season.

The Super Eagles striker has already scored eight goals in 13 appearances across all competitions, showing signs of returning to his best after a difficult spell at Wolves. Arokodare has also demonstrated his ability to compete physically and contribute to his team’s attacking play apart from scoring goals.

These qualities have made him a valuable option for Ajax and gives the club further reasons to consider keeping him beyond his loan spell.

The Super Eagles forward has also earned praise for his qualities and performances, including from former Tottenham Hotspur defender Toby Alderweireld, highlighting the impression he has made since arriving in the Netherlands.

If Arokodare maintains his current form throughout the season, Ajax could have a stronger case for activating the purchase option included in his loan agreement.

2. Arokodare’s willingness to stay

Another factor that could encourage Ajax to make the move permanent is Arokodare’s willingness to remain at the club.

The Super Eagles striker was unhappy with his situation at Wolves, where he struggled to secure regular playing time. At Ajax, however, he appears to have settled in well and is enjoying his football.

His positive experience in Amsterdam could make a permanent transfer an attractive option, particularly if he continues to receive opportunities and contribute to the team’s results.

Speaking after Ajax’s victory over Atalanta, Arokodare openly expressed his willingness to stay, although he acknowledged that the final decision rests with the two clubs.

“That’s between Ajax and Wolves! But of course I’m open to that”, Arokodare revealed.

“Everyone is great. I’m having a great time here, the people are great, the fans are great, the team is great, the club is great, you guys are great.

“I enjoy love, since the first day I sat in the stands. I can only say thank you to everyone.”

What happens next for the Super Eagles star?

Arokodare’s goalscoring form and desire to remain at Ajax give the Dutch club reasons to consider keeping him beyond the current season. However, completing a permanent deal may not be straightforward.

Ajax have a €20 million purchase option in his loan agreement and the club could secure his services permanently if they decide to exercise it.

However, the financial commitment involved could present an obstacle, and Ajax will need to determine whether a permanent move fits their plans and budget.

If the club can overcome those challenges and reach an agreement, Arokodare could continue his development in Amsterdam after a difficult spell in England.

For now, the Super Eagles striker will turn his attention to Ajax’s Eredivisie clash against Sparta Rotterdam on Sunday, where he will be hoping to build on his recent performances and deliver another goalscoring display.