Ipswich Town have announced the permanent signing of striker Chuba Akpom from Ajax Amsterdam, the Championship club confirmed on Tuesday. The 30-year-old has signed a contract with Ipswich Town that runs until 2029, following a successful loan spell with the club this season. Akpom was instrumental in Ipswich’s promotion to the Premier League, scoring goals against Hull City and Oxford United during their campaign.
Akpom joined Ajax from Middlesbrough last summer but struggled to establish himself as a regular starter in Amsterdam. Prior to his move to the Netherlands, the forward had a spell with Lille, joining the French club in January 2023 and departing in June 2023. He previously enjoyed a prolific season with Middlesbrough in the Championship, scoring 28 goals in 42 appearances during the 2022-23 campaign, which earned him a move to Ajax.
Ipswich Town finished second in the Championship with 84 points, securing automatic promotion to the Premier League. The club highlighted Akpom’s contribution to their success, emphasizing his goals were crucial in securing their return to the top flight after a significant absence. Manager Kieran McKenna will be hoping Akpom can replicate his Championship form in the Premier League.
Alongside Akpom’s permanent deal, Ipswich Town also announced that defender Cédric Kipré has signed a two-year contract, extending his stay until 2028. Kipré, 29, was on loan from Stade de Reims this season and featured in 32 Championship matches. The Ivorian centre-back, a product of Paris Saint-Germain’s academy, expressed his delight at the opportunity to continue with Ipswich in the Premier League, describing it as a dream come true. This dual announcement strengthens Ipswich’s squad as they prepare for the challenges of the Premier League next season.
These signings signal Ipswich’s intent to solidify their position in the Premier League and build a competitive squad capable of sustaining their success.
