Chuba Akpom is set to make a return to English football after Ipswich Town beat off stiff competition from Birmingham City and Middlesbrough to secure the striker on a season-long loan, Footynaija.com reports.
Akpom was on the verge of joining Birmingham City on a season-long loan, with the Blues agreeing terms with Ajax and scheduling a medical. The deal even included an option to buy, which would be triggered upon Premier League promotion.
However, in a stunning late twist, Sky Sports reports that Ipswich Town have hijacked the move, reaching an agreement in principle for a loan with an obligation to buy for £7 million if the Tractor Boys secure promotion.
Middlesbrough, where Akpom enjoyed a prolific spell and won the 22/23 Championship Golden Boot with 28 goals, also made a last-ditch attempt to bring him back. But Ipswich’s proposal and Premier League ambitions appear to have given them the edge.
Akpom, who joined Ajax from Middlesbrough in a €12 million move in 2023, struggled to replicate his form in the Eredivisie. He managed just seven goals in 32 appearances for Ajax and was frequently used off the bench.
Earlier this summer, he was reportedly frozen out of first-team training as Ajax sought to offload him permanently, but lack of top-tier interest forced a temporary solution. He also spent part of the 24/25 season on loan at Lille, scoring three goals in 14 Ligue 1 matches.
Born in London and a product of Arsenal’s academy, Akpom represented England at youth level before switching allegiance to Nigeria. Now, with his return to the Championship imminent, he’ll hope to reignite his career and push Ipswich toward the Premier League.