Ipswich Town has made its first significant move for the upcoming season, securing a new player just days after achieving a remarkable return to the Premier League. Under the guidance of manager Kieran McKenna, the club earned automatic promotion to England's top flight by finishing second in the Championship, sealed with a decisive 3-0 victory over QPR at Portman Road on Sunday afternoon. This triumphant return sees them join Coventry City in the Premier League for the next season.

The club's initial signing is Chuba Akpom, who will now join Ipswich Town on a permanent basis. Akpom had spent the entire 2025-26 season on loan at Portman Road, and Ipswich exercised an option-to-buy clause in his agreement to make the transfer permanent. During his loan spell, Akpom contributed with two goals across 31 appearances in all competitions for Ipswich.

His former parent club, Ajax, officially confirmed the transfer. In a statement posted on X, Ajax announced: "Ajax and Ipswich Town FC have reached an agreement on the transfer of Chuba Akpom. The striker joined the English club on loan from Ajax last season, with an option to buy included in the agreement. We wish you all the best, Chuba!"

Akpom's professional journey began at Arsenal, where he graduated from their esteemed academy in 2013. After making only four appearances for the North London club, he moved to Greek side PAOK in 2018. Before his transfer to Ajax in 2023, Akpom had a prolific spell at Middlesbrough, where he scored 33 goals in 77 matches, showcasing his scoring ability.