Sheffield United remain keen on Middlesbrough’s Chuba Akpom but it doesn’t look like there’ll be a clear run for the Blades.
Akpom is said to be Paul Heckingbottom’s number one choice to replace Iliman Ndiaye at the top of the pitch. The former Arsenal youngster hit 29 goals last term in a stunning campaign with Boro.
However, he is entering the final year of his contract and United are looking to swoop. But according to Sky Sports, so are Ligue 1 club RC Lens, who have apparently lodged an £8m bid for Akpom.
Sky claims that Middlesbrough are likely to reject the offer as they seek closer to £15m for their star man. Crucially, it’s claimed Boro won’t entertain offers either until they have a replacement lined up or signed.
Akpom was one of the stars of the show for Middlesbrough as they dominated United at Bramall Lane last season.
The Blades are looking to get busy in the market after losing both Sander Berge and Iliman Ndiaye. United announced the signined of Vinicius Souza today, while the likes of Benie Traore, Anis Slimane and Auston Trusty have all signed.
Sheffield United News View: A striker is a must
The creativity in the team we have lost means attacking players who can score and create are now crucial.
McAtee, Berge, Ndiaye and Doyle have all left. That’s left a gaping hole in this Blades squad and it’s simply imperative that Paul Heckingbottom is backed to replace them.
Funds are there, no matter what we hear from the owner. We’ve just landed £150m+ from promotion and brought in £30m+ from player sales.
The time to act is now and if it means paying a nice chunk for Akpom, then so be it.