Trabzonspor’s reported interest in Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare is far from a random transfer rumour.
The Turkish giants are facing growing uncertainty over the future of fellow Nigerian forward Paul Onuachu, and the profile of Arokodare suggests the club may already have identified the perfect replacement.
According to Turkish outlet TRT Spor, Trabzonspor are considering a season long loan move for the 25-year-old, who is expected to leave Wolverhampton Wanderers following the club’s relegation from the Premier League.
With the Black Sea Storm rebuilding for the 2026/27 campaign, three key factors could make the transfer a realistic one.
Trabzonspor officially reported Al-Ahli to FIFA over an alleged illegal approach for Paul Onuachu. Here’s everything you need to know about the dispute, the Saudi offer, and why the Turkish club are already searching for a replacement.
1. Onuachu’s uncertain future has forced Trabzonspor to plan ahead
The biggest reason behind Trabzonspor’s interest is the uncertainty surrounding Paul Onuachu.
The Super Eagles striker enjoyed a sensational campaign, scoring 26 goals and providing two assists in just 26 appearances as Trabzonspor secured a top three finish and lifted the Turkish Cup.
However, the club are now battling to keep their leading scorer after Saudi Pro League side Al-Ahli reportedly offered him a contract worth around €22 million per season alongside a transfer bid believed to be worth €20 million.
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Trabzonspor have already escalated the dispute by reporting Al-Ahli to FIFA over an alleged illegal approach for the Nigerian international.
Despite insisting they want to retain Onuachu, Turkish reports indicate the club have already begun identifying replacements should the 32-year-old eventually depart. Arokodare fits that profile almost perfectly.
Like Onuachu, he is physically dominant, dangerous in the air and capable of leading the line as a traditional centre-forward, making him a natural successor if Trabzonspor lose their talisman.
Tolu Arokodare leaping to score against Crystal Palace. Photo Credit: Imago
2. Wolves’ relegation has opened the door
Arokodare’s situation at Wolverhampton Wanderers has also strengthened Trabzonspor’s chances.
The Nigerian only arrived from Belgian side Genk last summer but endured a difficult debut season in England, registering seven goals and two assists in 42 appearances as Wolves were relegated from the Premier League.
The striker is understood to be keen on continuing his career at the highest possible level rather than spending next season in England’s second tier.
For Wolves, trimming the wage bill and reshaping the squad after relegation could make a loan or permanent exit an attractive option.
Trabzonspor, meanwhile, can offer regular first-team football, a club competing for trophies and a platform to remain firmly in contention for Nigeria’s World Cup plans.
About 9 notable Nigerian players currently active in the Turkish Süper Lig as of 2024-25 season including Victor of Galatasaray. PhotoCredit: Imago
3. Turkey has become a successful home for Nigerian stars
The Turkish Super Lig has increasingly become one of Europe’s most welcoming destinations for Nigerian footballers.
Paul Onuachu revitalised his career there before attracting lucrative interest from Saudi Arabia, while players such as Bright Osayi-Samuel, David Okereke, Henry Onyekuru and Olanrewaju Kayode have all enjoyed spells in Turkish football.
Joining Trabzonspor would not only reunite Arokodare with a growing Nigerian presence in the league but also provide an environment where Nigerian attackers have consistently thrived.
Having already established himself in Belgium before moving to England, the Super Lig could represent the ideal next chapter in Arokodare’s career.
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Whether Trabzonspor ultimately succeed in signing him may depend on what happens with Onuachu over the coming weeks.
But with uncertainty surrounding one Nigerian striker and another looking for a fresh start after Wolves’ relegation, the pieces appear to be falling into place for a move that would make sense for both club and player.
