Super Eagles’ striker, Tolu Arokodare has said that it would be a dream come true to sign for Manchester United, with the 24-year-old Genk forward revealing his childhood connection to the English giants amid growing interest from several top European clubs.
In an exclusive interview with PUNCH Sports Extra, the Belgian Pro League Golden Boot winner opened up about his goals for club and country, his admiration for Nigeria teammate Victor Osimhen, and how much it would mean to wear the famous shirt of the Red Devils.
Arokodare, who scored 21 league goals and added five more assists for Genk during the 2024/25 season, is reportedly being tracked by United’s scouting network, alongside Sporting’s Viktor Gyökeres and Frankfurt’s Hugo Ekitike.
However, his standout form and relative affordability compared to more expensive targets like Osimhen have made him an appealing option for Ruben Amorim’s team.
Addressing the growing transfer speculation, the towering striker made his position clear, “Of course, that would be a dream. I’m a Manchester United fan myself, so if it happens, it would mean a lot to me and my family. But for now, I’m still focused on playing for Genk, and that’s where my mind is at the moment.”
Arokodare’s name has surged in prominence following a breakout season that saw him lead the Belgian Pro League in goals, earn the prestigious Ebony Boot for best African player in Belgium, and make his senior debut for Nigeria earlier this year.
He has since scored once in four caps, but he described that maiden Super Eagles goal as one of the most emotional moments of his career.
“I’m still feeling very overwhelmed by that goal,” he said of the strike that ensured Nigeria’s unbeaten run under their new coach continued.
“It was my first for the Super Eagles, and I hope it won’t be my last. It was an amazing feeling. More importantly, it was good for us to continue our unbeaten run. We’re hoping to keep that momentum going, stay focused, and score more goals as a team.”
The forward, who previously played in Germany and France before moving to Belgium, insisted he is not in a hurry to make his next move, but admitted he has clear ambitions to test himself at the highest level.
“Obviously, it’s a dream of mine to play in the Premier League,” Arokodare said.
“My eyes are definitely on that, but I also want to stay open to whatever good opportunities come my way. I’m going to take my time and make the best decision when the time comes.”
Arokodare’s rise has mirrored that of many Nigerian stars who honed their skills in Europe before being called to represent the Super Eagles. And with a growing number of foreign-based players being courted by the Nigerian Football Federation, the striker says the national team setup is becoming more competitive and inspiring.
Reflecting on his role models within the squad, Arokodare singled out Napoli striker Osimhen for special praise, “I’m hoping for the best and aiming to score more goals for Nigeria. Having players like Victor Osimhen around, who you can learn from, is huge for me. He’s definitely someone I look up to. I’m just going to keep working hard, stay focused, and continue to pray for more opportunities to contribute.”
With Manchester United considering a shift in transfer policy under new sporting director Christopher Vivell, Arokodare reportedly fits the mould of the kind of dynamic, cost-effective forward the club may now be targeting.
Transfer insider Graeme Bailey has already confirmed United’s growing interest in him, suggesting that Arokodare has emerged as a serious target if the Red Devils fail to secure their top choices.
“Arokodare is a huge talent, in every way,” Bailey said.
“Ruben Amorim knows what he wants, he wants that target man – we know the club are moving on from Rasmus Højlund.
“He brings physicality, presence, and goals, and he’s only just beginning to realise his full potential.”
While the summer window is still young, Arokodare is staying grounded. “I think people should expect the best from me,” he said.
“Every time I step on the pitch, I give my all. All I ask is that everyone keeps praying and hoping for the best for me.”
Credit: punchng.com
