Report: Ajax open Wolves talks for Arokodare, but €25m is their cap

Ajax have opened talks with Wolves over a permanent deal for Super Eagles striker Tolu Arokodare, but are reportedly unwilling to pay more than €25m, according to Afrik-Foot, which cited Fichajes.

Arokodare is at Ajax on loan from Wolves. The report says Wolves are open to selling but must decide whether to accept Ajax's valuation, and that no agreement is in place. The fee and other terms are still to be settled, and the outcome could be decided as late as next summer. This is a report, not a confirmed deal.

The 25-year-old has nine goals and three assists in 14 appearances for Ajax this season, according to the same report. He previously played for Genk. Soccernet covered his own stance on a permanent switch and the money involved in an earlier piece on his Ajax future.

Ajax's reported ceiling is the number to watch. Wolves have not been reported to have named a price, and the report says they could hold out for more than €25m.

Analysis: Output makes the case, the loan structure makes the fee harder

Nine goals in 14 games is a rate of about 0.64 a match, which is the strongest argument Ajax have for paying. The same numbers give Wolves their argument too: a striker scoring at that pace is worth more than a bargain price.

If the two clubs cannot agree on a price this winter, the report suggests the stand-off could run to next summer, with Arokodare's stay at Ajax possibly extended in the meantime. For the player, that would mean more time in the Eredivisie, which suits a striker trying to stay in Eric Chelle's thinking for the Super Eagles.

Arokodare spoke about his Ajax ambitions earlier this month in Arokodare sets clear Ajax target. Soccernet will follow any official word from either club.