AFC Ajax is considering selling Chuba Akpom this summer in order to revamp their attack for the upcoming 2024/25 season, as reported by Soccernet.ng. Akpom, who was signed by Ajax for €12 million last year after a successful stint at Middlesbrough, struggled to make an impact as the team faced a disappointing season.
To bring a new dimension to the team, former OGC Nice manager Francesco Farioli has been appointed to lead the squad in the next season. Farioli has set his sights on Wout Weghorst, a Netherlands international currently playing for Burnley until 2025, to spearhead Ajax’s attack in the upcoming campaign.
However, before Ajax can pursue Weghorst, who had a lackluster loan spell at Manchester United with no goals in 17 league games in 2023, they need to offload Akpom. Voetbal Headliner reports that Ajax views it as crucial to part ways with the Nigerian forward to create space for Weghorst in the team.
Despite Akpom’s impressive record of 129 career goals, there hasn’t been significant interest from other clubs, posing a challenge for Ajax in moving him on. On the other hand, Weghorst has attracted attention from clubs in Italy, including Trabzonspor, but the 31-year-old is reportedly leaning towards a switch to Ajax.
In his debut season with Ajax, Akpom managed to score 15 goals across all competitions, with 11 of them coming in just eight Eredivisie starts. This indicates his potential and ability to find the back of the net, making him an intriguing prospect for potential suitors.
The potential transfer of Akpom and the pursuit of Weghorst signify Ajax’s ambition to strengthen their attacking prowess and compete at the highest level in the upcoming season. With Farioli at the helm, the team is looking to make strategic moves to enhance their squad and challenge for top honors in the 2024/25 campaign.