Following his relegation from the Premier League, the Blues offered him a new contract to stay in Suffolk, but his future remains uncertain. Speaking about his contract situation in April, manager Kieran McKenna stated: “Axel is someone we, of course, genuinely like.

“He’s a key player for us. I think it was a terrific decision for both him and us. He’s sort of rebuilt himself here after a terrible period. “He’s had some misfortune this year (a strange thumb injury, two hamstring setbacks, and a harsh red card), but he’s in a lot better position than when he arrived. I would surely like him to stay with the club. And I believe that there might be significant value and benefit for all parties involved. “But, at the same time, Axel is a fine professional, and he has the right to contemplate his future at this stage of his career, just as the club does.

“I’m sure there will be a notification once a conclusion has been reached. But, until then, I must say that he has demonstrated an exceptional amount of commitment. “The manner he recovered from his injuries and got through the games last week was beyond what any of us could have expected. He demonstrated his commitment to the cause. “I know his complete attention is on helping the squad right now, and the future will bring whatever it brings. “But if Axel can stay a part of the team, part of the club, then I’d certainly be very happy with that.”

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