After securing Champions League qualification, Ajax want to offload Akpom at all costs

Dutch giants Ajax Amsterdam are looking to part ways with striker Chuba Akpom during the upcoming summer transfer window, despite securing a return to the UEFA Champions League by finishing second in the Eredivisie.

According to Algemeen Dagblad, via Football Transfers, the four-time European champions are aiming to reduce their wage bill ahead of the new season.

A clause in Akpom’s contract reportedly stipulates that his salary would increase upon Champions League qualification — a financial commitment the club is now keen to avoid.

Akpom joined Ajax in the summer of 2023 under former director of football Sven Mislintat, but the transfer does not reflect Ajax’s present strategy.

After struggling for regular playing time in Amsterdam, Akpom was loaned to French side Lille during the winter transfer window.

The agreement included a purchase option worth over €12 million, but the Ligue 1 club appears unlikely to trigger it.

During his brief spell in France, Akpom registered three goals and one assist in 16 appearances.

Lille have publicly thanked the striker for his contribution in the second half of the campaign.

Akpom joined Ajax for €12.3 million after a prolific season with Middlesbrough, where he won the Championship Golden Boot in 2022–2023.

The Hale End Academy graduate has tallied 23 goals and four assists in 68 appearances for Ajax across all competitions.

The 29-year-old still has three years remaining on his contract with the Amsterdam club.