Ajax consider January departure for Chuba Akpom amidst Lille’s interest

The Nigeria-eligible forward has gotten his Ajax career back on track after initial struggles, but it appears he has failed to convince the powers that be in Amsterdam

Super Eagles hopeful Chuba Akpom could be on his way out of Ajax Amsterdam only six months after arriving from Middlesbrough for a transfer fee believed to be around 12 million euros, Soccernet.ng reports.

French outfit LOSC Lille has emerged as a suitor, reportedly expressing interest in a loan deal, as disclosed by transfer journalist Santi Aouna, as per Ajax Fanatics. 

The situation remains dynamic, with Aouna indicating “movement in the case,” although the willingness of Ajax to collaborate on the transfer remains uncertain.

The impending departure of Akpom, brought in by former director of football affairs Sven Mislintat to rival Brian Brobbey, opens a chapter of intrigue for the Amsterdam club.

Mislintat's pursuit of attacking prowess last summer witnessed an unsuccessful attempt to secure Serhou Guirassy from VfB Stuttgart, leading to Akpom's recruitment.

Akpom, the top scorer in England's second tier last season, arrived with a hefty price tag, sparking lofty expectations in Amsterdam.

However, his initial integration proved challenging, notably marked by a solitary appearance in the starting lineup against FC Twente under former coach Maurice Steijn.

Since Steijn's departure and the interim appointment of head coach John van't Schip, Akpom has experienced a resurgence, featuring prominently with nine goals in nineteen games.

Lille, currently reliant on Jonathan David as their primary striker, suffered a 2-1 defeat to RC Strasbourg last Wednesday, prompting coach Paulo Fonseca to publicly acknowledge the team's need for a new striker in January, emphasising the requirement for a potent number 9.

Akpom, who also attracted interest from RC Lens last summer, stands as one of the few acquisitions by Mislintat eligible for a January departure from Ajax.

The striker did not make any appearances for Middlesbrough earlier in the season, adhering to the regulations permitting players to represent a maximum of two different clubs within the specified timeframe.