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Toronto FC: Ayo Akinola deserving of his new contract

By Paul Taylor

HARRISON, NJ - SEPTEMBER 23: Ayo Akinola #20 of Toronto FC makes his way to the goal in the first half of the Major League Soccer match between Toronto FC and New York City FC at Red Bull Arena on September 23, 2020 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Ira L. Black - Corbis/Getty Images)
HARRISON, NJ - SEPTEMBER 23: Ayo Akinola #20 of Toronto FC makes his way to the goal in the first half of the Major League Soccer match between Toronto FC and New York City FC at Red Bull Arena on September 23, 2020 in Harrison, New Jersey. (Photo by Ira L. Black - Corbis/Getty Images) /
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Toronto FC is reportedly set to announce a three-year deal with Ayo Akinola, which will be one of the richest ever signed by an MLS homegrown or academy product.

The signing of Lorenzo Insigne, along with an apparent swap deal involving Yeferson Soteldo and Tigres UANL’s Carlos Salcedo are quite rightly dominating the headlines for Toronto FC at the moment. However, they are set to announce another important piece of business concerning Ayo Akinola.

As originally reported by the Toronto Sun‘s Steve Buffery, Akinola has agreed a new contract with TFC. Some paperwork still needs to be completed, but the deal is set to be announced as early as Wednesday.

As per Matt Scianitti of TSN, the new deal is for three years and will pay Akinola six figures a season. It is believed to be one of the richest ever contracts signed by an MLS homegrown or academy product.

There had been some speculation the 21-year-old was considering moving to Europe. However, he is prepared to put this ambition on hold for now, due to the moves being made by Toronto FC.

Critics may question the financial compensation of the new deal, but it speaks volumes about Akinola’s potential and what TFC expect from him. He burst onto the scene in 2020, with a team-high nine goals in just 15 regular season games.

The Detroit, Michigan native took a step back last season, but still had his moments with three goals in 11 regular season appearances. He also decided to switch his international allegiance from the U.S. to Canada and made his debut for them against Haiti.

Akinola’s season was cut short by an ACL injury and he underwent surgery. As per TSN, he is now back running and accompanied the team to California on Tuesday for the start of preseason training.

This is an excellent signing which will help reinforce TFC’s attacking options for the season ahead. After suffering through a disastrous 2021 campaign, the club is expected to bounce back and contend again, with Akinola playing a key role.

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Another signing of note was officially confirmed by the Reds on Monday, involving Jordan Perruzza. The deal with the forward runs through 2024, with an option for 2025.

The 21-year-old made his first team debut for TFC last season and went on to play seven games in all competitions, scoring once in the process. He previously spent two seasons with Toronto FC II, scoring 17 goals and adding two assists in 28 appearances.

TFC Head Coach and Sporting Director Bob Bradley sees a promising future for Perruzza. As per Torontofc.ca, Bradley said:

"“Jordan is a talented young striker who gained valuable experience with San Antonio FC and Toronto FC II last year. We hope he is ready to make a big step in 2022.”"

light. Trending. TFC close to Soteldo for Salcedo swap deal

What kind of success are you predicting for Akinola moving forward with TFC? Do you expect him to see out his new three-year deal in Canada, or move to Europe sooner? Let us know in the comments section below.

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