Chuba Akpom: Why Ipswich Town could sanction surprise deadline-day exit

Nigerian attacker Chuba Akpom could be on his way out of Ipswich Town before the transfer window closes today, Afrik-Foot reports.

​Akpom joined Ipswich on a season-long loan from Ajax last summer. There was an obligation-to-buy clause in the contract, provided that they gained promotion to the Premier League.

​When they signed Akpom, it was believed that he would eventually become a key player for the club due to his brilliant campaign in the 2022/23 season, when he registered 28 goals and two assists in 40 Championship appearances.

​However, the Nigerian striker turned out to be merely a squad player. He made 29 appearances in the league, only seven of which were starts, scoring two goals and winning one penalty.

​Coming into this season, he was not expected to play a key role for the Tractor Boys in the Premier League, and that has indeed been the case. Akpom has featured in Ipswich Town’s first two games of the season, but both appearances came from the bench.

​Now, it appears he might be on his way out of Portman Road, though that depends on one specific outcome.

​Why Chuba Akpom Might Leave Ipswich Town

​Chuba Akpom was introduced as a second-half substitute when Ipswich Town took on Manchester United over the weekend, and he scored.

​However, it appears he might still be on his way out of Ipswich Town as the club closes in on the signing of Zian Flemming from Burnley. The Dutch striker is expected to complete the transfer before deadline day.

🚨 Exclusive: Ipswich confident on signing Zian Flemming from Burnley. Medical likely for this afternoon. Advanced talks ongoing. pic.twitter.com/j4agOmdKPD

— Ben Jacobs (@JacobsBen) September 1, 2026

​If Ipswich sign a new striker, it likely means they will part ways with one. Since Akpom is not a regular starter, there is a strong possibility that they will let him leave.

​Championship side Sheffield United have shown interest and are looking to make a late push for the Nigerian attacker.

Sheffield United have enquired about the availability of Chuba Akpom from Ipswich. Blades are attempting a loan move. #SUFC #ITFC pic.twitter.com/fAdMl3GFoo

— Danny Rose (@dtalksfooty) September 1, 2026

​Since Ipswich do not see Akpom as a key player, they will be willing to strike a deal and recoup some of the €9.3 million they paid for him.

With the transfer window closing at 11:00 PM tonight, they must negotiate and finalize the transfer quickly.