Ipswich Town given contrasting transfer advice on Chuba Akpom & Ivan Azon | OneFootball

A verdict has been cast on the future of two Ipswich Town loanees, who are edging closer to their time at Portman Road coming to an end.

Ipswich Town will be hoping that they're planning for life back in the Premier League this summer, with the Tractor Boys firmly in the race for promotion into the top-flight.

The Tractor Boys are currently sat third in the Championship table, and are just two points adrift of the automatic promotion places. With just eight games remaining in the 2025/26 league campaign, they'll fancy their chaces of forcing themselves above Middlesbrough once the players return from the international break.

It'll be an interesting summer transfer window ahead at Portman Road, particularly for players that are currently on loan with Ipswich, as they could potentially be keen to make a permanent switch to the club, especially if they're to win promotion this term.

The likes of Chuba Akpom and Ivan Azon will be looking to make a positive impression between now and the end of the season, and both have had contrasting times with the second tier club.

Chuba Akpom transfer verdict made

Akpom is currently on loan from Dutch giants Ajax, and the 30-year-old has found it tough to adjust to life at Portman Road with Ipswich, as he's scored just two goals in his 28 appearances in all competitions for the Tractor Boys.

The forward is behind the likes of George Hirst in the pecking order in Kieran McKenna's squad, and it remains to be seen as to whether the club will look to turn Akpom's loan into a permanent move.

Football League World's Ipswich Town fan pundit, Adam Wilkin was quizzed on whether Akpom should be signed on a permanent basis, and he certainly sided on not pursuing a deal for the former Arsenal youngster: "On Akpom, I don't think so. Given his age, and the sort of profile we're looking for, he was a bit of a gamble in the first place anyway, and it's not really paid off. I think he does have some qualities, but I don't think he would fit in our side on a more permanent basis."

Ivan Azon deal more suitable for Ipswich Town

Ivan Azon is another player attacking option that is available to McKenna on a temporary basis, with the striker being on loan from Italian side, Como.

The 23-year-old has scored five goals in 32 appearances for Ipswich this season, although it's worth taking into account that more often than not, Azon has featured as a substitute for the promotion-chasing side.

Wilkin went on to issue his verdict on Azon, and it's safe to say that the fan pundit was impressed with what he's seen from the former Spanish youth international.

"Azon on the other hand, he's a good age, he's still fairly young, and I've seen a lot of what I like. He may have missed a few chances but I feel like he's underperforming his xG, as they've been 'worldie' saves that the keepers have pulled off. He looks stronger every game, and he's getting to know the English game. I think he's got a much higher ceiling than Akpom.

"So, Azon I would definitely sign, and Akpom, I wouldn't go in for at all."

Ipswich are set to return to action on Monday 6th April, as they prepare to take on Birmingham City, in a game that they simply have to pick up three points from if they're to keep their automatic promotion chances in their own hands.