English striker Chuba Akpom has today completed his move to Middlesbrough on a permanent basis. The former Arsenal teenager moves from Greek side PAOK for an undisclosed fee. He becomes the fourth summer signing at Middlesbrough after deals for Sam Morsy, Marcus Betinelli and Grant Hall were all completed.
Middlesbrough Sign Chuba Akpom
Welcome to #Boro, @cakpom! 🔴⚪️ #UTB
— Middlesbrough FC (@Boro) September 19, 2020
Impressive Spell Abroad
Akpom impressed within his time at PAOK, netting 18 times over a two-year spell with the club. He helped the side in achieving their first major title in 34 years in 2019 and has continued his fine form this year, leaving his side on the brink of Champions League qualification.
Akpom broke onto the scene graduating from Arsenal’s established academy set up, but only appeared 12 times for the first team before he was shipped out on a number of loans in search of first-team football. Seeing loans at Brentford, N0ttingham Forest, Brighton & Hove Albion and Hull City, Akpom struggled to make an impact before his permanent move to PAOK in the summer of 2018.
Warnock’s Thoughts.
Middlesbrough’s lack of depth in attack will be boosted by the arrival of Akpom as they previously only had two senior strikers. The English youngster adds much-needed competition for the season going ahead with Middlesbrough’s lack of goalscoring form – they are yet to find the net in the league this season. Warnock spoke of his delight, despite his self-isolation period due to his positive COVID-19 test on Thursday, revealing that Akpom was his top target in this summers window.
Speaking to the club website, he said: “I’m delighted to finally have got him. He’s been my number one choice. I’ve wanted him for a long time. I’d like to give a big thanks to Neil Bausor for getting it done.”
Akpom will not be eligible for Middlesbrough’s fixture today due to only recently signing, but will be ready to make his debut against Queens Park Rangers next week.
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