Sunderland are competing with Leicester City and Marseille for the signing of Ajax forward Chuba Akpom, according to Dutch journalist Mike Verweij.
The Black Cats are eager to bolster their attack before the transfer window closes, but they now face stiff competition for the former Middlesbrough striker.
NIEUWS: 🎣 van mogelijke linksbuitens naar wie #Ajax lijntjes uitgooide, heeft Forbs voorkeur Farioli.
⏪ Terugkeer Portugees biedt kansen Ramaj en Akpom.
🏴 spits kan naar Leicester, Sunderland en Marseille.
🇩🇪 keeper naar Neurenberg en Frankfurt.https://t.co/kedBEZj1Zs— Mike Verweij (@MikeVerweij) January 28, 2025
Busy Final Week for Sunderland
With just days remaining before the January transfer deadline, Sunderland are looking to add reinforcements to strengthen their push for automatic promotion. Following a disappointing 2-2 draw against bottom side Plymouth Argyle, pressure has increased on manager Regis Le Bris to bring in more firepower.
So far, Le Bris has only added midfielder Enzo Le Fee to the squad. While the signing of Le Fee was a high-profile move, the club has struggled to finalise other deals, and time is now running out.
Akpom Could Be the Difference Maker
Sunderland remain within touching distance of the top two, sitting just three points behind second place. However, they have struggled to break into the automatic promotion spots, making additional firepower a key priority.
Akpom, who scored 28 goals in 40 Championship matches just two seasons ago, could be the player to give Sunderland the edge. Despite their solid goal return this season, adding a proven goal scorer at this level could be the decisive factor in securing a top-two finish.
What’s Next for Sunderland?
Sunderland’s next fixture is the Tees-Wear derby against Middlesbrough—a match that already carries plenty of tension but could become even more significant if Akpom moves to Wearside. The forward was a fan favourite at Boro, and his arrival at their local rivals would no doubt add further intrigue to the contest.
However, with Leicester and Marseille also in the mix, Sunderland must act swiftly if they want to secure Akpom’s signature. The next few days will be crucial as the club looks to seal a move that could define their season.
Writer’s View
Chuba Akpom would be an excellent addition for Sunderland as they continue their push for promotion. His goal-scoring ability at this level is well-documented, and his arrival could provide the extra firepower needed to secure a top-two finish. However, with competition from Leicester and Marseille, the Black Cats must move quickly to avoid missing out on a player who could transform their season.
