French clubs Lille, RC Lens to lock horns for award-winning Super Eagles hopeful

French Ligue 1 clubs Lille and RC Lens are locked in a fierce battle to secure the services of Middlesbrough forward Chuba Akpom, Soccernet.ng reports.

With the imminent departure of Loïs Openda, RC Lens are actively seeking a suitable replacement, and Akpom's name has emerged as a new contender.

Adding fuel to the fire, Lille, according to Le Quotidien Du Sport, are also eyeing the talented Super Eagles hopeful.

The 27-year-old striker currently plies his trade in the English Championship with Middlesbrough, where he showcased his prowess by netting an impressive 28 goals last season. This remarkable feat earned him accolades as the top scorer and best player in the championship.

Akpom, a product of Arsenal's youth academy, is known for his predatory instincts and skills with both feet.

However, he struggled to gain the confidence of the Gunners and was subsequently loaned out to various clubs, including Brentford, Coventry, Nottingham, Hull City, and Brighton.

In 2018, he made a permanent move to PAOK Salonika before eventually returning to Middlesbrough in 2022 after an underwhelming loan spell in Greece during the 2021/2022 season.

Under contract with Middlesbrough until 2024, Akpom is valued at approximately €12 million (Transfermarkt).