Ipswich Town’s return to the Premier League has sparked immediate debate about how Kieran McKenna should strengthen his squad for the top flight. Promotion brings excitement, but it also brings the harsh reality of competing against stronger, deeper and more experienced teams. If Ipswich want to give themselves the best chance of survival, smart recruitment will be essential. One name that should be high on their shortlist is Ajax forward Chuba Akpom.
Akpom’s recent two-goal display has once again reminded clubs of the qualities he offers in attack. The former Arsenal academy graduate has built a career on movement, sharp finishing and physical presence. At 30, he combines experience with hunger, and that blend could make him an ideal signing for a newly promoted side looking for proven quality.
Ipswich were one of the most entertaining teams in the Championship during their promotion campaign. They attacked with energy, pressed aggressively and played with confidence. However, the Premier League is a different level entirely. Chances are fewer, defenders are quicker, and mistakes are punished more severely. Having a striker who can convert limited opportunities is often the difference between staying up and going down.
Akpom has shown throughout his career that he knows where the goal is. His standout spell at Middlesbrough demonstrated he can carry an attacking burden over a full season. Even in different leagues and systems, he has continued to find moments of quality inside the box. That instinct cannot be taught, and it is exactly what Ipswich may need.
Another reason Akpom makes sense is his versatility. He can play as a central striker, second forward or even in wider attacking roles if required. McKenna values tactical flexibility, and a player like Akpom would give him more options depending on opponents. Against stronger teams, Akpom could operate on the counterattack. Against fellow relegation rivals, he could lead the line and bully defenders physically.
Financially, the move could also be realistic. Ajax may be willing to sell for the right price, especially if they are reshaping their squad. That is why the headline says Ajax would smile to the bank. They could receive a healthy fee, while Ipswich would secure a player with experience and immediate impact potential. For a promoted club, finding value in the market is crucial.
Ipswich must also think beyond sentiment. Players who delivered promotion deserve respect, but Premier League survival often requires upgrades in key positions. The club cannot rely solely on momentum from the Championship. They need players who can step in immediately and raise the level of the squad.
Akpom would also bring mental toughness. He has played under pressure, moved abroad, adapted to new environments and responded to setbacks. Those are valuable traits in a survival battle where confidence can swing quickly after a run of poor results.
Of course, no signing is guaranteed success. The Premier League is unforgiving, and every transfer carries risk. But compared to gambling on an unproven youngster or overpaying for a fashionable name, Akpom looks like a practical and intelligent target.
Ipswich fans have waited years for this return to the big stage. Now the challenge is staying there. If the club wants a striker capable of scoring vital goals, offering experience and fitting McKenna’s style, Chuba Akpom could be the perfect summer move. Ajax may profit, but Ipswich could gain something even more valuable — Premier League survival.
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