Sheffield United are now in a three-way battle for Middlesbrough striker Chuba Akpom, with the forward expected to move on this summer.
The Blades have registered an interest in signing Akpom as Paul Heckingbottom looks to replace Iliman Ndiaye.
United kick off the new season against Crystal Palace this weekend and despite a number of new signings, the club have failed to directly replace Iliman Ndiaye and Sander Berge.
Middlesbrough star Akpom is believed to be Paul Heckingbottom’s number one choice to replace Ndiaye.
However, according to the Northern Echo, United will be locked in a three-way battle with both RC Lens and Ajax to sign Akpom.
The Echo reports how United will be reluctant to go above a reported £8m offer Lens have already had turned down.
The French side are armed with a £40m warchest after selling Lois Openda. They pushed PSG all the way last season, finishing just a point behind but need to replace Openda to maintain that push.
Ajax, meanwhile, lack centre-forwards and are said to be hoping Akpom’s relationship with Sven Mislintat can lure the Boro striker to the Netherlands.
The Blades, meanwhile, hope the pure of the Premier League will push Akpom to pressure Boro into selling him.
United confirmed the signing of Vinicius Souza yesterday but are looking to add more before the window closes.
Sheffield United News View: Board have to push Akpom deal through
While the board deserve a touch of credit for getting some players in, the time has come for them to really step up now after the sales of Berge and Ndiaye.
If Heckingbottom wants Akpom, then it has to get done. 29 goals last season was hugely impressive and you only had to be at Bramall Lane last season to see how good he was.
Sure, he’s never going to be Iliman Ndiaye. But we can’t replace that.
Akpom brings goals and is going into his peak years. If this costs a bit more than the £8m being quoted, then so be it.