The 22-year-old has turned down the O’s and Football League clubs to sign for Daryl McMahon’s Fleet

East London Advertiser: Leyton Orient loanee Ebou Adams brings the ball forward against Gateshead (pic: Simon O'Connor).Leyton Orient loanee Ebou Adams brings the ball forward against Gateshead (pic: Simon O'Connor). (Image: Simon O'Connor Photography)

Former Leyton Orient loanee Ebou Adams has signed for National League rivals Ebbsfleet United.

The 22-year-old completed a move to the Fleet on Friday afternoon after he had been released by Norwich City’s under-23s.

It was revealed on May 24 Adams wouldn’t be signing for the O’s with the ex-Dartford midfielder insisting it “was a very difficult decision” for him to turn down Orient.

Martin Ling had confirmed a week earlier on May 17 the club had “put a very good financial offer in for Ebou and as good an offer as we can for someone of his age.”

Ling later added: “I don’t think his decision is anything to do with finances” while the youngster was still deciding his future.

East London Advertiser: Martin Ling during his spell as Swindon Town manager (pic: David Davies/PA Images).Martin Ling during his spell as Swindon Town manager (pic: David Davies/PA Images). (Image: PA Archive/PA Images)

Orient’s director of football was under the impression if Adams did turn down the offer on the table from the east Londoners, then he would sign for a Football League club.

Southend United were among the sides from a higher level interested in the energetic midfielder, but he has turn down advances from O’s and others to sign up with Ebbsfleet.

Fleet boss Daryl McMahon told their official club website: “He’s had similar or better offers elsewhere, but he likes what he’s seen here.

“He thinks we’re progressive as a club. He’s coming to us because he’s looked at our squad and how we performed last season and he thinks he’ll be a good fit. I think he’ll be a big player for us.”

Adams’ decision on paper appears a strange one given interest from Football League clubs, but Ebbsfleet is closer to his Dartford home.

The ex-Norwich midfielder is also part of Sports Management Company Aureus Sports UK, who list Fleet manager McMahon among their clients.

Whether that has or hasn’t played a part in Adams decision remains to be seen, but O’s will continue to look elsewhere.