Chuba Akpom commits future to Ipswich after promotion

Ipswich Town have kicked off their Premier League preparations by turning Chuba Akpom’s loan into a permanent deal following their long‑awaited return to the top flight.

Kieran McKenna’s side sealed automatic promotion by finishing second in the Championship, capped by a 3–0 home win over Queens Park Rangers at Portman Road.

Akpom spent the 2025–26 campaign on loan from Ajax and has now officially signed on after the club activated their option to buy. The striker originally joined the Dutch side from Middlesbrough in 2023 and will now be part of Ipswich’s core group as they step back into the Premier League spotlight.

Although his numbers were modest, two goals in 31 appearances across all competitions, McKenna values Akpom’s work rate, movement and flexibility across the front line. Securing his services early sends a message of continuity and stability as Ipswich plan for a higher level of competition. With promotion confirmed alongside Coventry City, the club’s hierarchy see Akpom as a low‑risk, ready‑made option who already understands the system and dressing room, an important foundation before further summer signings arrive.