Akpom unsure of Ajax future

Super Eagles hopeful, Chuba Akpom, could be out of Ajax before the start of the 2024/25 season after the player confessed that he was unsure of his future at the Johan Cruyff Arena, PUNCH Sports Extra reports.

The 28-year-old has always been a subject of transfer speculation amid rumours linking the former Arsenal player with a return to England.

It’s only been a year since Akpom left England for The Netherlands but the Super Eagles hopeful has been linked with a return, with several unnamed clubs said to be interested in his services.

Akpom had an excellent 2022/23 season with Middlesborough where he scored an impressive 28 league goals from 38 matches and almost guided them back to the Premier League.

 

He went on to become one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe but eventually joined Ajax for a fee believed to be in the region of €12m.

After a difficult start in Amsterdam, Akpom showed glimpses of his brilliance, netting 15 goals and registering three assists in 35 appearances across all competitions.

The 28-year-old’s stat is even more impressive considering the fact that he started only nine of those 35 matches.

However, in an interview with NOS, Akpom discussed his focus on football despite the ongoing speculation.

“What I’ve learned throughout my career is to stay focused on football,” he said.

“If you start thinking about things off the pitch, you get distracted. I don’t know if I’ll still be here next week or by the end of the transfer window, but every day I come to the club, I train as if I’ll be staying here this season.”

At 28, the London-born forward is keen to secure more playing time next season.

“I don’t think I can sit on the bench as a second striker for another year. If I’m more involved in games this year, I’d like to stay here. If not, it might be time to look elsewhere,” he added.

Akpom has four years left on his running contract with Ajax Amsterdam but the Dutch side will let him go for the right offers.