Lille sign Akpom from Ajax

AFC Ajax centre-forward Chuba Akpom (29) has signed for Lille OSC on loan with an option to buy, both clubs have announced.

Akpom underwent a medical with Les Dogues on Saturday and attended Lille’s home Ligue 1 4-1 win against relegation-battling AS Saint-Etienne.

The former Arsenal Academy graduate will bolster Bruno Genesio’s options up front as Mohamed Bayo is set to join Belgian Pro League Royal Antwerp. What’s more, centre-forward Jonathan David will be out of contract next June.

This season, Akpom has logged eight goals, including four in the Europa League, with AFC Ajax. In the second half of the campaign, the former Middlesbrough striker will feature in the Champions League as Lille have already booked their ticket for the round of 16 after concluding the league phase in 7th place.

Akpom will wear the No. 24 jersey with Les Dogues.

“I am very happy to be here“, Akpom said.

“LOSC is a big club, one of the best in France, which practices beautiful football and achieves great things in Europe and in the league.”

Akpom comes in as backup for Canadian striker Jonathan David, who has scored 20 goals and set up another eight in all competitions this season.

Described as a “technical, hard-working, powerful and an impactful striker” by the club, the Londoner started his career at Arsenal without making his mark on the Gunners, who loaned him to several English clubs including Hull City and Brighton.

He also played for PAOK Salonika and Middlesbrough.

Akpom could make his Lille debut this Tuesday as Les Dogues host Nord rivals Dunkerque in the Coupe de France round of 16.