Chelsea is currently at the forefront of a group of three Premier League clubs interested in acquiring Lorient midfielder Arthur Avom during the upcoming summer transfer window.
The midfielder, born in 2004, is considered a rising star in French football. Scouts from Chelsea, West Ham, and Aston Villa have been regularly observing his matches throughout the season.
His current club, Lorient of French Ligue 2, is reportedly eager to sign him to a new long-term contract, as his existing deal is said to expire this summer.
However, with Chelsea positioning themselves as a prime destination for Europe`s top young talent, Avom is reportedly not rushing to sign an extension.
He plans to listen to all incoming offers and make a decision regarding his future this summer.
Lorient has a strategic partnership with Bournemouth and believes the 20-year-old could move to the Premier League in a deal similar to the one that saw Dango Ouattara join the Cherries.
West Ham is also showing interest, as manager Graham Potter looks to rebuild a midfield unit that has significantly underperformed this season.
Meanwhile, Aston Villa will participate in European football next season, and Unai Emery is keen to strengthen his squad.
The Aston Villa manager played a crucial role in Nicolas Jackson`s development at Villarreal and is now aiming to convince the talented midfielder to move to Villa Park.
Avom, a Cameroonian international, is frequently compared to the Ivorian legend Yaya Toure.
He possesses excellent technique, a powerful shot, and notable stamina, making him effective as both a central and a box-to-box midfielder.
This season, he has played in thirty league matches, quickly becoming a key player for manager Olivier Pantaloni.
Sources indicate that Chelsea`s interest is centered on signing Avom and then loaning him to their sister club, Strasbourg.
However, it remains uncertain whether the midfielder would prefer a direct move to the Premier League or staying in France a while longer.
Marcus Bellamy