Who is Noah Okafor? The RB Salzburg targeted by Chelsea and Man Utd

Karan Tejwani

• Updated: 16 Sept 2022 15:00 BST
• 5 min read

Red Bull Salzburg have started the Champions League on a positive note, picking up two points from arguably their two toughest games in the group stage against Italian champions Milan and then Chelsea.

The two matches finished 1-1, with the Austrian champions picking up a point at Stamford Bridge despite going a goal behind, as Noah Okafor scored an equalizer.

Okafor is the latest talent to come through the Red Bull Salzburg system – one that has previously produced great attackers like Sadio Mane, Erling Haaland, Patson Daka and Karim Adeyemi, amongst others.

So, what do we know about the Swiss forward who is making a big name for himself this season?

What position does Noah Okafor play in?

Okafor can play across the front three in attack, but primarily plays as a forward, and it’s the position he is played in the most for Red Bull Salzburg.

How good is Noah Okafor?

Red Bull Salzburg have a host of attacking talent in their side, with Benjamin Sesko amongst the roster as well, but there is still plenty of eyes on Okafor, who has been rising through the ranks.

The forward has had a magnificent start to the season with Salzburg, scoring seven goals and providing two assists in 12 appearances, including brilliant Champions League goals against Milan and Chelsea.

Salzburg’s system is designed for forwards to thrive and Okafor has all the right attributes to be a successful forward there: speed, great movement and an eye for goal.

So far this season, Okafor has averaged a goal contribution every 68 minutes, and at the time of writing, he is on a six-game scoring streak across all competitions for Red Bull Salzburg.

Beyond that, Okafor is also great on the ball, able to take players on while dribbling and links up well with the rest of his team-mates, making him a great option for a team that plays on the counter.

Other than that, Okafor is adored for his willingness to press off the ball, making him a great option to have for a team that defends high up the pitch, such as Salzburg, who have made the most of his qualities.

For the Austrians this season, he has formed a good duo in attack with Sesko – one that’s brimming with talent and potential, and the two are to be observed for the next few years as they continue to get better.

What clubs are interested in Noah Okafor?

There is plenty of interest in Okafor from clubs across Europe: in the Premier League, the likes of Chelsea and Manchester United have been interested in him in the past, while lower clubs such as Everton and Leeds want him.

In Italy, Milan have been rumoured to want to make a move, but are evaluating whether to pay the €35 million fee that the Austrian champions are demanding.

In Germany, Borussia Dortmund are also believed to be keeping an eye on the situation, and after Haaland and Adeyemi, Okafor could be the next Salzburg forward they sign.

When does Noah Okafor’s contract expire?

Okafor’s contract at Red Bull Salzburg ends on 30 June 2024.

How old is Noah Okafor?

Okafor was born on 24 May 2000. He is currently 22-years-old.

What is Noah Okafor’s height?

Okafor is 1.85 metres tall, or 6 ft tall.

What is Noah Okafor Instagram?

Okafor’s Instagram – noah.arinze – has 205,000 followers as of September 2021.