Bristol City are reportedly preparing a move for FC Lorient striker Sambou Soumano, who is set to become a free agent this summer as his contract with the French club nears its end.
The 25-year-old Senegalese forward has emerged as a transfer target for the Championship side as they shape their recruitment plans ahead of the new season.
Bristol City are working to put together an offer in an attempt to convince the striker to move to English football.
Soumano brings significant experience in French football, having played extensively across both Ligue 1 and Ligue 2.
He has made 51 appearances in Ligue 1, scoring seven goals and providing two assists. In Ligue 2, his record is more productive, with 87 appearances yielding 28 goals and five assists.
His contract at Lorient is due to expire this summer, making him an attractive option for clubs looking to strengthen their attacking options without a transfer fee.
His current market value is estimated at around €4 million.
Interest in Soumano is not new. Several English clubs have previously monitored his situation, including Brentford, Sunderland and Burnley.
All three were reportedly impressed by his performances and saw him as a potential addition to their attacking line-ups.
The striker was also close to securing a move away from Lorient last summer, when Azerbaijani side Qarabag attempted to sign him.
However, the deal collapsed in the final stages of the transfer window.
Following that setback, discussions even took place over a possible contract extension with Lorient, although no agreement was ultimately reached.
During that same period, other clubs also tested Lorient’s resolve. Blackburn Rovers and Swansea City are said to have submitted offers in the region of €6 million, all of which were rejected.
Qarabag’s bid was reportedly valued at €2.5 million plus bonuses, while Lorient were understood to have set their asking price at around £5 million.
Soumano joined FC Lorient in January 2022 and has since developed into a regular figure within the squad.
Despite fluctuating form, his physical presence and experience across different levels of French football have maintained his appeal in the transfer market.
FC Lorient are currently preparing for their 32nd league fixture of the season against Paris Saint-Germain, as attention around the squad continues to grow with several players attracting interest ahead of the summer window.
With his contract situation unresolved, Soumano now faces an important decision regarding the next step in his career.
A move to England appears increasingly likely, with Bristol City among the leading contenders to secure his signature.
As the transfer window approaches, competition for the striker is expected to intensify, particularly with multiple English clubs already familiar with his profile and past performances.
