Player rejects media account as club weigh transfer options
Wolverhampton Wanderers striker Tolu Arokodare has publicly disputed media reports that he deliberately prevented a first‑team training session from going ahead amid ongoing transfer speculation.
Reports earlier this week claimed the 25‑year‑old Nigerian refused to leave the training pitch at the club’s Compton Park base after being told he would not be involved with the senior squad, prompting head coach César Peixoto to end the session. Wolves have been linked with moves to move Arokodare on following their relegation to the Championship.
In a social media statement, the forward described the coverage as inaccurate and said he intended to meet his contractual obligations by training and contributing to the team when called upon.
“I was very surprised and disappointed to see the media reports today, many of which were inaccurate … I remain under contract with Wolves, and my only intention is to fulfil my responsibilities professionally by training, doing my job, and contributing to the team in accordance with that contract.”
Transfer background and recent team news
Wolves are reported to have accepted an offer from Turkish side Trabzonspor while turning down a proposed swap or deal involving Italian club Fiorentina. Arokodare is said to favour a move to Italy, but his public reply indicates he disputes the depiction of events at Compton Park.
The forward was not named in the Wolves side for the pre‑season friendly against Maidenhead United, a match Peixoto’s team won 3‑0. His absence from that travelling party has added to speculation that he is not central to the new head coach’s immediate plans.
Player record and financial context
Wolves paid around £24 million to sign Arokodare from Belgian club Genk last summer. The striker had been prolific in Belgium, scoring 21 league goals in his final full season there to finish as the Pro League’s top scorer. He struggled for consistent playing time in England, however, netting three goals in 27 Premier League appearances as Wolves endured relegation.
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Reported incoming offer | Trabzonspor (accepted by club, according to reports) |
| Proposed deal rejected | Involving Fiorentina (reported) |
| Wolves fee paid | Around £24 million |
| Recent appearances in England | 3 goals in 27 Premier League appearances |
Local implications and what to watch
The exchange of accounts between player and media sources underlines a difficult pre‑season for Wolves as they prepare for life in the Championship. For supporters in Wolverhampton the key questions are straightforward:
- Will the club finalise a permanent exit for Arokodare this summer?
- How will Peixoto assert his authority and shape a squad capable of an immediate return to the top flight?
- What balance will the club strike between recouping transfer money and keeping playing options for the new season?
Peixoto’s early management style has already been the subject of attention; one report suggested security was increased at Compton Park after the training ground episode. Wolves have confirmed that they are exploring exits for the forward while making clear contractual and professional expectations remain in force.
For a city still smarting from relegation, how this situation is resolved will matter both on the pitch and to the club’s summer business. Any move that brings financial return will be weighed against the manager’s need for a settled squad as pre‑season progresses and competitive fixtures loom.
Supporters will be watching closely in the coming days for an official club statement or transfer confirmation that clarifies the player’s future and the accuracy of the conflicting accounts.
