3 reasons Ajax new boy Tolu Arokodare is an upgrade on Wout Weghorst

Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare has completed a transfer from English club Wolverhampton Wanderers to Dutch Eredivisie side Ajax, Afrik-Foot reports.

​This is a major move for the 25-year-old marksman, who is coming off a difficult debut campaign at Wolves that saw him register just six goals and two assists in 38 appearances as the club suffered relegation from the Premier League.

​The upcoming season is a crucial trial period for him, as his contract includes an option-to-buy clause. This means Ajax can choose to sign him permanently for €22 million if they are satisfied with his performances; otherwise, he will return to Wolves.

Tolu Arokodare set to join Ajax. Copyright: Imago

​De Godenzonen are seeking redemption after finishing fifth in the Eredivisie last season. Dutch striker Wout Weghorst served as their first-choice forward but managed only eight goals and four assists in 28 league games.

​With Weghorst having now departed, Arokodare steps in as the new focal point of the attack at the Johan Cruyff Arena.

​In this article, we examine three reasons why Arokodare is an upgrade on Weghorst.

​1. Tolu Arokodare Offers a Younger, Long-Term Option

​Weghorst turns 34 in August and has dealt with recurring fitness issues in Amsterdam, including an ankle problem that sidelined him for a stretch of the 2025-26 season.

Wout Weghorst at AFC Ajax. Copyright: ImagoxBenxGalx

​On the other hand, Arokodare is 25 and entering the prime years of his career. Standing at an imposing 6 feet 6 inches with exceptional aerial strength, he is built for the target-man role.

He mirrors what Weghorst offers stylistically, but without the extensive mileage and injury history. Unquestionably, the Super Eagles star boasts greater stamina and can sustain consistent performances.

​For a club looking to build a cohesive squad rather than rely on short-term fixes, that significant age gap makes Arokodare the much more sustainable long-term solution up front.

​2. His Underlying Output is More Explosive When Fit and Firing

​Arokodare’s numbers at Wolves last season do not reflect his full capabilities. Before his move to the Premier League, he finished as the top scorer in the Belgian Pro League with Genk, netting 21 goals and providing six assists.

Photo by IMAGO

This proves that once integrated into a stable system with consistent service, he is a prolific scorer. Conversely, Weghorst struggled significantly last season, managing just eight goals and four assists.

​One thing is certain: Arokodare will receive ample service at Ajax. If he can rediscover his Genk form under Míchel, he offers Ajax a much higher ceiling in front of goal than Weghorst has produced in recent times.

​3. A Calmer Player With Less Baggage

Wout Weghorst, Davy Klaassen of Ajax, and referee Sven Jablonski. Copyright: ImagoxVIxANPxSportx/xMauricexvanxSteenxIVx

​During his time at Ajax, Weghorst developed a reputation for picking up cautions. He often uses aggressive antics to rattle opponents, but he frequently crosses the line.

​Over his two seasons with the club, he was booked 12 times in 65 appearances—a poor disciplinary record for a forward.

Wolverhampton Wanderers Tolu Arokodare. Copyright: ImagoxDennisxGoodwinx

​Arokodare, by contrast, is a much calmer presence and a disciplined team player. Throughout his professional career, he has received only 11 yellow cards. Consequently, he does not need to play on the edge constantly, unlike Weghorst.

​Overall, this transfer looks like a clear upgrade for Ajax. If Arokodare delivers on the pitch, he could easily secure a permanent move to Amsterdam next season.