Victor Olatunji, a promising 25-year-old Nigerian striker, has embarked on a new chapter in his football career, joining Major League Soccer (MLS) side Real Salt Lake (RSL) from Czech giants Sparta Prague. This permanent transfer marks a significant step for Olatunji, who leaves behind a successful two-year stint in the Czech Republic, punctuated by 20 goals in 93 appearances across all competitions. His contract with RSL extends through June 2028, with options for the club to retain him until the end of the 2029 season. This acquisition underscores RSL’s ambition to bolster their attacking prowess and further solidify their position in the MLS Western Conference.
Olatunji’s arrival in MLS involved navigating the league’s unique Discovery Priority system. This system allows MLS clubs to claim rights to players not currently playing in the league, essentially reserving the opportunity to negotiate with them should they decide to join MLS. D.C. United held Olatunji’s Discovery Priority, meaning they had the exclusive right to negotiate his transfer within MLS. Real Salt Lake, recognizing Olatunji’s potential, negotiated with D.C. United, securing his Discovery Rights for $125,000 in 2026 General Allocation Money. This strategic move paved the way for RSL to finalize the deal and bring the highly sought-after Nigerian forward to Utah.
Olatunji’s football journey began at the age of 18 in his native Sokoto, Nigeria. His career trajectory has taken him through various leagues in Europe, including Slovakia, Austria, Cyprus, and the Czech Republic. Before his move to Sparta Prague in July 2023, he had already amassed an impressive 43 goals in 105 appearances, showcasing his consistent goal-scoring ability. His time at Sparta Prague was marked by significant achievements, contributing to the club’s domestic double – winning both the Czech First League and the Czech Cup – during the 2023-24 season. Furthermore, Olatunji made a notable impact on the European stage, scoring six goals in 14 UEFA Champions League appearances, a testament to his ability to perform at the highest level.
Olatunji’s Champions League debut was particularly memorable. In a resounding 3-0 victory against Red Bull Salzburg, he not only found the back of the net but also provided an assist, becoming the first Nigerian and only the third African player to achieve this feat in the prestigious competition. His contributions extended beyond the Champions League, as he played a crucial role in Sparta Prague’s dramatic comeback against Dinamo Zagreb in the UEFA Europa League qualifiers. His 87th-minute goal secured a 4-1 victory, propelling Sparta Prague to the next round with a 5-4 aggregate win. These performances solidified his reputation as a clutch player capable of delivering in crucial moments.
The Nigerian striker expressed his enthusiasm about joining Real Salt Lake in a video released by the club. He highlighted his eagerness to play in Utah and embrace the American football landscape. Having heard positive things about the club and its environment, he expressed a strong desire to contribute to the team’s success. He emphasized his commitment to hard work, his desire to connect with the fans, and his ambition to contribute goals and assists, solidifying his place within the squad. He will don the number 17 jersey for RSL, a symbol of his new beginning and the expectations placed upon him.
Olatunji’s arrival at Real Salt Lake marks him as the third Nigerian-born player to represent the club. He follows in the footsteps of midfielder Sunday Stephen, who played for RSL between 2016 and 2018, and current forward William Agada, who joined from Sporting Kansas City earlier in the season. The club also boasts captain Emeka Eneli, a player of Nigerian heritage, further strengthening the Nigerian connection within the team. RSL’s Chief Soccer Officer, Kurt Schmid, lauded Olatunji’s acquisition, highlighting his speed, strength, and tactical awareness as valuable assets that will enhance the team’s attacking options. This signing, along with the recent additions of Brazilian Designated Player Rwan Cruz and USA U-20 international Marcos Zambrano, indicates RSL’s proactive approach to strengthening their squad for the remainder of the season and building for the future. This strategic recruitment reflects the club’s commitment to competing at the highest level within MLS.
