Sunderland eye Lorient's Arthur Avom

Sunderland are keeping a keen eye on Lorient midfielder Arthur Avom, a move highlighted by the Sunderland Echo’s Mark Carruthers and echoing the headline ‘Sunderland Were Keeping – Midfielder Should Le Bris Recruit Him?’. The Black Cats hope to secure the 21‑year‑old French‑based Cameroonian in this Ligue on a cut‑price deal in January or on a free transfer next summer.

Avom’s form and contract

Avom has enjoyed a solid start to this Ligue 1 campaign, delivering a string of reliable displays in the middle of the park. He has made ten appearances for Lorient this season but has yet to register a goal or an assist across all competitions. On 27 March 2026 he featured in a FIFA Series match in Sydney, confronting Australia’s Ajdin Hrustic. At 21, he is regarded as one of the most gifted central midfielders in Ligue 1.

His current contract with the French club expires at the end of the campaign, opening the possibility of a cut‑price signing in January. Alternatively, Sunderland could acquire him on a free transfer next summer.

Sunderland’s recruitment plan

The Black Cats are eager to finalise a deal for the Cameroonian talent next year, according to reports. Regis Le Bris is expected to benefit from Avom’s quality and depth in his midfield department.

Avom is a solid tackler who reads danger well, makes crucial interceptions and is a tidy passer from midfield. Primarily a box‑to‑box midfielder, he can also operate as an attacking or holding midfielder if required. He must improve his goal and assist output to thrive in the Premier League, where there are concerns about his adaptation. Nevertheless, at 21 he possesses the potential to become a world‑class player and could compete for a regular first‑team spot at the Stadium of Light.