Lille Olympique Sporting Club, LOSC, have completed the signing of striker Chuba Akpom from Ajax Amsterdam on a loan deal with an option to buy until the end of the 2024-25 season.
The 29-year-old forward underwent his medical on Saturday and was in attendance as Lille secured a dominant 4-1 Ligue 1 victory over AS Saint-Étienne.
Akpom attracted interest from several clubs across the Premier League, Championship, and Europe, but Lille successfully secured the deal. His arrival is expected to provide much-needed depth to the team’s attacking options.
Known for his technical ability, physicality, and intelligence, Akpom can operate as a central striker or in wider attacking roles, adding versatility to Lille’s frontline.
Akpom’s Journey So Far
Chuba Akpom. (Photo by ANP via Getty Images)
The Arsenal academy graduate enjoyed a breakout season with Middlesbrough in 2022-23, scoring 29 goals in 42 appearances and earning the Championship Player of the Season award.
His performances earned him a move to Ajax in 2023, but regular playing time proved elusive.
Despite this, he managed 15 goals in 36 appearances during his first season in the Eredivisie. This campaign, he has already netted eight league goals and four more in the UEFA Europa League.
Under contract with Ajax until 2028, Akpom has made 68 appearances for the Dutch club, scoring 23 times.
LOSC president Olivier Létang expressed his delight at securing Akpom’s signature, emphasizing his experience and attacking versatility.
“We have been following Chuba for a long time, and we are thrilled to have him with us.
His experience in top European competitions and his ability to play in various attacking positions will bring a new dimension to our squad.
He has a strong desire to join us, and we believe his qualities will help us achieve our objectives in the second half of the season.”
Akpom also shared his excitement about the move, stating:
“I’m very happy to be here. LOSC is a great club that plays beautiful football and has achieved great things in both France and Europe.
I’m excited to start my adventure here and look forward to contributing to the team’s success.”
With Akpom eager to make his mark, Lille will hope his arrival provides the firepower needed for a strong finish to the season.
