Crystal Palace and Everton ‘race’ to sign Tolu Arokodare after Wolves latest
Wolves star Tolu Arokodare has placed himself on the radar of a number of Premier League clubs thanks to his recent impressive form.
That is according to former Man United and Blackburn chief scout Mick Brown, who remains very well-connected within the game, as he exclusively told Football Insider that scouts are now watching the 25-year-old at Molineux.
Arokodare has scored just one goal in 17 Premier League appearances so far, but his physical presence and link-up play have made him a valuable asset.
Wolves drew 1-1 with Everton last time out, and the Nigeria international played a key role as Michael Keane was sent off for an act of violent conduct against him.
Arokodare was tipped as Jorgen Strand Larsen’s replacement when he arrived from Genk just six months ago, but may already be set for a move away.
Three Premier League clubs tipped to sign Tolu Arokodare
The likes of Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest and Everton, all of whom are interested in signing a new striker, could make moves thanks to Wolves’ seemingly inevitable relegation.
Brown, who has a wealth of experience in top-level player recruitment after over a decade at Man United during their most successful period, insisted a number of teams will have been pleased by what they have seen from the striker.
“One player who has really impressed is Tolu Arokodare,” he told Football Insider.
“He’s big, strong, physical, willing to battle with defenders, and he makes himself a handfull.
“He can hold the ball up, bring others into play, and he’s played a big role in Wolves’ recent form even if he isn’t always scoring goals.
“All of these teams we speak about needing a striker, Crystal Palace, Nottingham Forest, Everton, they will all be aware and keeping a close eye on him.
“They’ll have been looking at Wolves and working out which players might suit them, as every club does when a team look like they will be relegated.
“From what I hear, he’s now going to be on the radar for a lot of these clubs, and I think he could make a real difference for somebody.”
Mateus Mane attracting interest in January transfer
Arokodare is not the only Wolves attacker attracting interest thanks to his recent performances, with 18-year-old Mateus Mane also inspiring speculation.
Brown told Football Insider on 7 January that clubs including Chelsea are keeping tabs on Mane and have been placed on alert by his performances.
Mane starred in Wolves 3-0 win against West Ham, before scoring again in the 1-1 draw against Everton, impressing his watching suitors.
Typically a forward, the England Under-18s star has featured as an attacking midfielder and winger under Rob Edwards and has handled the step up with aplomb.
As a result, “almost every club” in the Premier League has taken note of his displays and could pounce to agree a deal with Wolves likely to be relegated.
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