Fabrizio Romano – West Ham have made approach to sign 23y/o int’l

West Ham have made an approach to sign Lyon defender Jake O’Brien.

The Hammers are keen to bolster their defence this summer as they look to replace Angelo Ogbonna who has been released by the club.

West Ham have been heavily linked with a move for Max Kilman, but they have found it hard to broker a deal with Wolves refusing to lower their £45 million asking price.

In such a scenario, the Hammers have turned their attention to other alternatives.

According to transfer guru, Fabrizio Romano, West Ham have made move to sign 0’Brien.

The 23-year-old defender joined Lyon last summer from Cork City and made 32 appearances in all competitions, scoring five goals.

Romano wrote on X: “Exclusive: West Ham make move for OL centre back Jake 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.”

West Ham need more than one defender this summer

Bolstering the centre-back areas is a priority for West Ham this summer. Kurt Zouma is up for sale while Nayef Aguerd could be allowed to leave.

O’Brien progressed through the youth ranks at Cork City and spent time at Crystal Palace (although he did not make any appearance for the senior side), Swindon Town and Molebeek on loan before joining Lyon.

He has managed two caps for his country, Republic of Ireland, making his debut earlier this year against Hungary.

Kilman remains the top priority for the Hammers, although, at this point, it looks like Wolves are not willing to entertain any deals other than the direct transfer.

West Ham submitted an opening bid of £30 million-plus for the player, but it was rejected. The Hammers were expected to make another bid, but talks have not progressed, and they are now looking for other options.

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