Victor Olatunji on the move? Why he would make sense for MLS.
With the Major League Soccer transfer rumors already starting with players that may be leaving their clubs this summer, let's take a look at one of the transfers that could be MLS bound.
U.S. based fans may recognize the name Victor Olatunji from UEFA Champions League appearances with Sparta Prague where he scored 4 goals and provided 2 assists in 722 minutes between Champions League and Champions League Qualifiers this past season. Those goal contributions came against notable opposition in Shamrock Rovers, FCSB, Red Bull Salzburg, and Stade Brestois.
In the Czech First League, the 25-year-old Nigerian added 7 goals to his season in 878 minutes of play, and another in the Czech Cup. Prior to his three year stint in Prague, he made stops in Cyprus, Austria and Slovakia.
His goal scoring may not be as high as Sparta fans would hope for, but in terms of goal contributions per minutes played, it's pretty good considering how he has scored those goals, combined with everything else he provides the team. He's a threat in transition, and in the box, whether its finishing on the break or from balls played in, or capping off combination plays.
Victor Olatunji Goals, Assists and Goal Chances —
The aspects of his game that stand out the most are his movement and passing from the center forward position. His willingness to drop deeper and contribute to the build out, awareness of his teammates in the wide areas, and overall passing ability have helped Sparta in transition. His physical strength serves him well in hold up and link up play as well as holding off challengers when he’s on the dribble.
Victor Olatunji Passing, Combinations, Hold Up and Link Up Play —
Olatunji’s work rate and strength pop up again in his willingness to defend and back press, making him a complete forward type. He reads when he’s able to step in and win the ball off an opponent or pick off a pass from his advanced field position.
Victor Olatunji Defensive Actions —
It’s rumored that Sparta’s asking price is set at 5 million euros which is a price range that even some of the lesser spending clubs can manage for a player of his profile. That figure could become more affordable as negotiations take place. He’s currently on a discovery list in MLS, so priority would go to that club, but you have to assume other clubs are well aware of his potential availability. We’ll also have to wait and see if other interest around Europe arises.
If Olatunji makes his way to the United States, the expectations would inevitably be high, but based on his skills and attributes, I think he would flourish and become a big asset to wherever he lands.