Neil Warnock reacts as Middlesbrough sign ex-Arsenal striker and 'number one choice' Chuba Akpom

The Boro boss said on Monday he wanted to sign two more strikers, and it was revealed earlier this week that Akpom was his No.1 target.

Akpom, 24, left Arsenal to join Greek side PAOK in 2018 following loan spells at Hull, Nottingham Forest, Coventry, Brentford and Brighton during his time in England.

The striker has joined Boro for an undisclosed fee, with reports in Greece claiming he cost around £2.8million.

Speaking to Boro’s official website, Warnock said: "I'm delighted to finally have got him.

"He's been my number one choice. I've wanted him for a long time. I'd like to give a big thanks to Neil Bausor for getting it done.

"I told him what we were doing at the club, and right from day one, he wanted to come, and I'm delighted."

Akpom won’t be available for today’s Championship game against Bournemouth but will be at the Riverside to watch his new team-mates from the stands.

The striker could make his debut when Boro travel to QPR next weekend.

Akpom is the fourth player who has joined the Teessiders during this transfer window, following the arrivals of midfielder Sam Morsy, goalkeeper Marcus Bettinelli, and centre-back Grant Hall.

The frontman scored 18 goals during his two years at PAOK and helped them to an unlikely title success in 2019 – despite starting with a seven points deduction.

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