Torquay United is delighted to announce the signing of former Liverpool and St Johnstone defender Oludare Olufunwa, subject to international clearance.
Olufunwa is the first of two centre-half signings United hope to complete as manager Jimmy Ball moves to strengthen his defensive options following Sam Dreyer’s departure and the long-term ACL injury suffered by Jordan Dyer.
The athletic 6ft 1in centre-back arrives at Plainmoor with an impressive pedigree, having spent 11 years progressing through Southampton’s highly regarded Academy before joining Premier League giants Liverpool in 2022.
Strong in the air and composed in possession, Olufunwa is a front-foot defender who is comfortable defending one-on-one and can also operate at right-back. He made more than 30 appearances for Liverpool’s Under-21s during the 2022/23 campaign, having previously represented Southampton in the EFL Trophy.
Oludare’s performances on Merseyside earned him a move to Scottish Premiership side St Johnstone in the summer of 2023. He went on to make 11 appearances in Scotland’s top flight, including starts against the likes of Celtic, Rangers and Hearts, before gaining further experience on loan with Hamilton Academical.
More top-flight football followed overseas with IF Gnistan in Finland, where he made 11 appearances during the 2025 season, before a spell with Jordanian Pro League side Al-Salt.
Still only 25, Olufunwa brings strength, athleticism and composure to United’s back line, together with experience gained in some outstanding footballing environments at home and abroad.
Welcome to Plainmoor, Oludare!
Please note: This transfer remains subject to TUFC receiving international clearance. Olufunwa will therefore not be available for selection for Saturday’s home fixture against Folkestone Invicta.
