Ajax secure the signing of Chuba Akpom from Middlesbrough

• In a significant transfer deal, Dutch giants Ajax, Champions side Middlesbrough F.C., and Chuba Akpom have mutually agreed on the striker's move to Ajax.
• The 27-year-old British forward has put pen to paper on a contract that will remain in effect until June 30, 2028.
• The financial details of the deal include a transfer fee of €12.3 million from Ajax to Middlesbrough F.C., with an additional €2 million potentially added based on performance-related variables.

The signing comes after speculation that Akpom, who had just one year left on his Boro contract, was being targeted by Premier League clubs, Everton and Sheffield United.

French Ligue 1 sides, Lens and Lille were also reportedly interested in the Arsenal Academy graduate. However, these potential transfers did not materialize. Ultimately, Akpom has committed to joining the former Eredivisie and European champions.

Born on October 9, 1995, in London, Akpom progressed through the ranks of Arsenal's youth academy and made his debut in professional football with the club.

His journey included loan spells at several English clubs before making a move to Greek side PAOK FC in 2018.

Two years later, he transferred to Middlesbrough F.C., where he displayed his prowess by netting an impressive 28 goals in 38 matches during the last season, despite the club competing in the Championship.

Chuba Akpom's association with Ajax will make him the ninth Nigerian player to don their colours, joining the ranks of notable stars such as Nwankwo Kanu, Sunday Oliseh, Finidi George, Pius Ikedia, Tijani Babangida, and Calvin Bassey. Bassey, who joined from Glasgow Rangers, recently left Amsterdam for Fulham this summer, just a year after his move.