Arthur Avom Ebong has emerged as one of the most sought-after young midfielders in Ligue 2, with Chelsea, West Ham United and Aston Villa all vying for his signature as his contract with FC Lorient nears its end.
The 21-year-old Cameroonian has made a strong impression during his breakthrough season in French football.
His performances have attracted serious interest from top English clubs looking to bolster their midfield options ahead of the upcoming transfer window.
Chelsea are believed to be at the front of the queue and are reportedly considering a deal that would see Avom Ebong signed and immediately loaned out to their partner club, RC Strasbourg.
The move would allow him to gain top-flight experience in Ligue 1 while remaining within Chelsea’s long-term development plans.
West Ham are also monitoring the situation closely.
Under new manager Graham Potter, the Hammers are looking to rebuild after a disappointing campaign and see the Lorient midfielder as a player capable of bringing renewed energy and versatility to their squad.
“Arthur Avom fits the profile we are looking for – technically sound, composed, and tactically flexible,” a source close to the club suggested.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa manager Unai Emery is keen to bring Avom to Villa Park as part of his wider strategy to strengthen the squad for European competition.
The Spaniard, known for his work in nurturing young talent, sees parallels between Avom and current Premier League star Nicolas Jackson, whom he developed at Villarreal.
Emery is hopeful that his proven track record and long-term vision will convince the player to choose Birmingham over London.
Avom’s future remains undecided as he approaches the final months of his contract. Lorient have attempted to renew terms, but the midfielder has opted to keep his options open for now.
“We’re in a period of reflection,” a representative of the player reportedly stated. “Arthur wants to make the best choice for his development.”
FC Lorient are no strangers to seeing rising stars make the leap to England, having previously facilitated the move of Dango Ouattara to Bournemouth.
Should Avom follow a similar path, the Brittany club could once again play a part in shaping the next wave of Premier League talent.
Whether the promising midfielder heads to England this summer or chooses to refine his game further in France remains to be seen.
What is certain, however, is that Arthur Avom Ebong’s next move will be one of the most closely watched transfer stories in the coming weeks.
