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West Ham United move for Lyon gem Jake O'Brien as Fabrizio Romano shares transfer twist

Jonny is a University of Leeds journalism graduate who became part of the FootballInsider team in Spring 2024, and recently worked as Head of Media for Widnes Vikings Rugby League club. Writing as a freelance reporter and commentator for The Sporting News and StatsPerform, he has covered matches in competitions including the FIFA Men's and Women's World Cups, as well as the Champions League, Women's Euro 2022, Six Nations and the Rugby Union World Cup.

Published on:

28 Jun 2024, 1:14 pm

West Ham United have made a move for Lyon centre-back Jake O'Brien, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Italian journalist posted on X (28 June) to say that with Wolves still demanding £45million for their captain Max Kilman, the Irons have identified O'Brien as an alternative.

23-year-old O'Brien has two caps for Republic of Ireland since signing for Lyon just last summer, but the Hammers making a move could see him return to the British Isles in the coming weeks.

Kilman remains a "strong target" for Julen Lopetegui in the current window, but with O'Brien available for less than half Wolves' asking price, the Irishman could be the next-best fit at the London Stadium.

Jake O'Brien transfer a good alternative for West Ham United

Lopetegui is extremely fond of a reunion with Kilman, whom he first gave the armband to during his spell at Molineux, but Wolves' asking price could be too much of a stretch for the Hammers.

The Spaniard has identified centre-back as one of six areas in which his side need improvements this summer, and could make multiple purchases if any of the Irons' current defenders head for the exit [The Sun, 23 May].

🚨⚒️ EXCL: West Ham make move for OL centre back Jack O’Brien, one more name on the shortlist.

Max Kilman remains strong target but still not easy with Wolves as they ask around £45m.

O’Brien, added to West Ham list. pic.twitter.com/RvPYVmvIIC
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) June 28, 2024

With Kilman's price tag potentially a bridge too far, and talks for Brazilian international Fabricio Bruno falling through due to wage demands [ESPN Brazil, 3 June], O'Brien represents an alternative who could thrive in East London.

Five goals in 32 appearances during his debut season at Lyon suggest that the Ireland defender would also add a goal threat for the Hammers, something which Lopetegui will welcome.

Centre-backs are at a bigger premium than ever before, particularly at Premier League level, but in O'Brien the Irons could have a cut-price option on their hands who is ready to make the step up.

In other West Ham news, the Irons have made contact with Jaden Philogene over a potential summer switch from Hull City

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