Middlesbrough striker Chuba Akpom is now set to move to Ajax after Lens pulled out of the deal, as per Sebastien Denis.
Akpom was Middlesbrough’s top scorer last season.
The 27-year-old managed 28 league goals in the second tier last season. He helped fire Michael Carrick’s side to a 3rd place finish in the Championship but unfortunately they were unable to go the extra mile and achieve promotion.
Akpom looked certain to leave Boro before last season, but his major turnaround in form saw him become a fan favourite.
However, naturally his impressive goal-scoring record last year has attracted plenty of interest this summer.
French side Lens were well in the race for him, but have since pulled out meaning Dutch side Ajax look set to win the race.
🚨#exclu 🔴🟡
Alors qu'un accord était trouvé avec toutes les parties (club et joueur) et que Chuba Akpom devait se rendre ce lundi à la Gaillette pour passer la traditionnelle visite médicale, le #RCL est sorti des discussions, les représentants du joueur étant en contact avec… pic.twitter.com/zCYIZmY0Ep— Sébastien Denis (@sebnonda) August 13, 2023
The Athletic go on to report a medical is scheduled for tomorrow with a deal costing Ajax €12million with the potential of €2million add-ons.
An exciting move
For Akpom this is a huge move. He will be able to play European football and attempt to prove himself on a huge stage.
The striker is joining Ajax at the right time given his recent form, but it does leave Boro short.
Carrick’s side appear to be targeting forward reinforcements in preparation for the departure of Akpom, but replacing almost 30 goals a season isn’t an easy feat for the recruitment team.
Middlesbrough have started the season slowly but they must ensure they keep their heads up, especially given what they achieved last season following a very slow start.
Next up for Carrick is a home clash against Huddersfield Town this coming Saturday. A perfect opportunity for them to get their campaign up and running.
