In a recent report, renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano claimed that West Ham United are hoping to recruit Olympique Lyonnais defender Jack O’Brien this summer. It has been mentioned that the Hammers are eyeing a move to secure the services of the Irish centre-back this off-season.
O’Brien’s Impressive Form In French Football
O’Brien has put in a series of impressive displays at the heart of Lyon’s backline during this campaign. The 23-year-old registered five goals and earned two assists in 32 matches for the French outfit last season in multiple competitions.
The Irish talent has given a good account of himself on the defensive end of the field based on his average of 0.8 tackles, 0.4 interceptions and 3.6 clearances per game in Ligue 1. He has even been tidy when distributing possession from the back after completing 88.3% of his attempted passes in the French top tier (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the French club will run out in the summer of 2027 which could make it tough for the Hammers to get a deal done for him in this transfer window.
Is O’Brien A Good Choice For West Ham United?
O’Brien is a tough-tackling defender who can scan the danger well to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind clearing the danger when required and can use his powerful 1.97m to dominate the opposition attackers in the air.
The Irish sensation can even play his way out from the back. However, he is still unproven at the highest level and would need time to adjust to life in Premier League football. Still, the pros outweigh the cons of recruiting a defender of O’Brien’s skillset this summer.
We can expect O’Brien to bring more quality and depth to West Ham boss Julen Lopetegui’s backline. He is good enough to challenge for a regular starting role at the London Stadium next season.
At 23, O’Brien has his best years ahead of him which makes him a great choice for the East London club to pursue in the long run. However, Lopetegui would have to be patient with his progress before he can get the best out of the youngster at the London Stadium in the future.
