TalkSPORT claim Leeds United are one of six Premier League clubs fighting for Middlesbrough striker Chuba Akpom this summer – if Michael Carrick cannot deliver promotion on Teesside, with Boro pulling Sheffield United back.
Middlesbrough have won 14 of 19 Championship games since Carrick came in as a replacement for Chris Wilder. An incredible record that has seen Boro climb to third in the table. They are just seven points behind Sheffield United.
With Sheffield United stuttering of late, losing three of their last five Championship games, Boro have a real chance to pull in Paul Heckingbottom’s side in the race for automatic promotion. Akpom has been incredible for Carrick.
Akpom, 27, joined Boro in the summer of 2020. His first season saw him play 40 times, but he managed just five goals. Last season, he went on loan to Greek side PAOK – and returned to Boro last summer. It really did the trick.
That is because Akpom has returned in stunning form. This season, he has 22 goals in 30 games, even though he has played as a striker or as an attacking midfielder. He was out of contract – but his deal has been extended.
Leeds one of six Premier League clubs fighting to sign Chuba Akpom
Top-tier clubs are ready to pounce if Boro do not go up. TalkSPORT say six Premier League clubs are keen with three of those being Leeds, Everton and Crystal Palace. It hinges on one condition – Boro failing to get promotion.
If Boro remain in the second tier, then it is clear that Akpom will go. But, if Boro do manage to go up – in the top two, or in the play offs – then it is likely he will sign a new deal and have a crack at the top tier. The first of his career.
