Former Netherlands striker, Pierre van Hooijdonk has praised Chuba Akpom ahead of his proposed move to Eredivisie giants, Ajax.

Akpom is expected to complete a €14m move to the former European champions this week.

The 28-year-old was top scorer in the Sky Bet Championship last season with 28 goals.

The Nigerian-born forward was also named the Best Player in the division.

Hooijdonk has seen enough of Akpom during his time at Middlesbrough and has backed him to become an instant hit at the Amsterdam club.

“Yes. Very big yes. He is big, athletic, fast, two-legged, has a fantastic header, but especially really looks for space behind the defence,” Van Hooijdonk told Footballtransfers.

“He is not someone who hangs with his back to the opponent like Brobbey, but he really looks for the through balls. I’ve watched his goals, the quality splashes off.”

Akpom represented England at youth level but has pledged his international allegiance to Nigeria.