Ipswich Town corner flag
Image credit: Getty Images
Former Arsenal academy forward Chuba Akpom has ended weeks of transfer speculation by joining Championship side Ipswich Town on a season-long loan from Ajax. The deal, confirmed by both clubs, includes a purchase clause that becomes mandatory if Ipswich secure promotion to the Premier League.
The 29-year-old striker was the subject of interest from Birmingham City, Middlesbrough, and Olympiakos but has opted to return to English football, where he previously enjoyed a prolific spell. His loan will run until 30 June 2026, with reports suggesting the obligation to buy is set at around £7 million should Ipswich go up.
Akpom last played in the Championship during the 2022/23 season with Middlesbrough, where he scored 28 goals to win the division’s Golden Boot. That form earned him a €12.3 million move to Ajax in 2023, but his time in Amsterdam was inconsistent, yielding 14 goals in 41 appearances. He spent last season on loan at French Ligue 1 side Lille, netting three times in 14 league games.
Former Arsenal academy striker Chuba Akpom (Image credit: Getty Images)
Ipswich, who were relegated from the Premier League last season after finishing 19th with just 22 points, are aiming for an immediate return to the top flight. Manager Kieran McKenna has moved quickly to strengthen his attacking options, with Akpom’s arrival seen as a key boost. The Tractor Boys opened their Championship campaign with a 1-1 draw against Birmingham City on 8 August.
In a statement, the club expressed their delight at securing Akpom: “The Club is excited to announce the signing of striker Chuba Akpom on a season-long loan from Ajax.” Ajax also confirmed the agreement, noting the inclusion of an option to buy.
Akpom, who joined Arsenal’s academy at the age of six and made several first-team appearances before a series of loan spells, said he was eager to get started: “I’m thrilled to be back in England and ready to contribute to Ipswich’s promotion push.”
The move not only resolves Akpom’s uncertain future at Ajax but also gives him another chance to replicate his Championship scoring heroics.