Man Utd track Nigerian striker as a 'low cost, high potential' signing

Manchester United have identified Genk striker Tolu Arokodare as a new centre-forward target after being impressed by his performances in the Belgian top flight.

Both head of recruitment Christopher Vivell and director of football Jason Wilcox have been wowed by Arokodare’s progress, especially as United continue talks for other striker options.

United’s need for attacking reinforcements is urgent after a disappointing 2024-25 season in which they finished 15th in the Premier League and struggled for goals.

Rasmus Hojlund, who was signed for £72 million in 2023, managed just 10 goals in all competitions last season, with only four coming in the league, leading manager Ruben Amorim to push for a new number nine.

While United were initially keen on Liam Delap, he opted to join Chelsea for Champions League football. The club remains in discussions for Viktor Gyokeres and Hugo Ekitike—both considered priority targets—but Arokodare has now emerged as a viable alternative.

The 24-year-old Nigerian striker finished as the Jupiler Pro League’s top scorer with 17 league goals and 23 in all competitions, catching the eye of United’s scouting department, reported TeamTalk.

Arokodare is viewed as a “low-cost, high-potential” option, with a reported price tag of around £20 million. His relatively modest wage demands also make him an attractive proposition, allowing United to allocate resources to other areas of the squad.

At his age, Arokodare fits the profile of a player who could develop into a top-class centre-forward over the next few years.

Despite the growing interest, sources indicate that Arokodare is likely a backup option behind Gyokeres and Ekitike.

United are confident about their chances of landing Gyokeres, who is open to reuniting with Amorim at Old Trafford, while Ekitike is also enthusiastic about a move and has supported United since childhood.

As United reshape their squad, Arokodare’s emergence on the shortlist highlights the club’s commitment to finding the right striker to lead their attack next season