Chuba Akpom, the former Middlesbrough striker, has officially completed a one-year loan move to Ipswich Town from Eredivisie club Ajax. The deal, which was confirmed by both clubs on Sunday, includes an obligation for Ipswich to buy the 29-year-old if they are promoted to the Premier League.
Akpom’s transfer marks the end of what has been described as a “bizarre transfer saga” this summer, involving Ipswich, Birmingham City, and his former club, Middlesbrough. Akpom was reportedly set to undergo a medical with Birmingham City before Ipswich made a late approach that convinced the striker to change his mind.
The move sees Akpom return to the Championship, where he had a hugely successful spell with Middlesbrough in the 2022/23 season, scoring 28 goals and winning the division’s Golden Boot. His form earned him a move to Ajax in 2023 for €12 million. While at Ajax, he scored 23 goals in 68 games, but his high annual salary of €5 million made him an outcast at the Dutch club. He spent the latter half of last season on loan at Lille, where he scored three goals in 16 appearances.
The signing is considered a significant boost for Ipswich Town, who are among the favorites for promotion this season. Akpom is their sixth summer signing and could make his debut in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday.
This report summarizes Akpom’s transfer to Ipswich. The search results provided additional context about the “transfer saga” and Akpom’s recent experiences at Ajax, which I have included.
You can find more information about the transfer and fan discussion in this video: KOA discussion: Chuba Akpom and Jens Cajuste close to joining Ipswich Town
