West Ham United are looking to address their defensive frailties with a financially astute move for Lyon’s young centre-back Jake O’Brien.
New manager Julen Lopetegui has inherited a major challenge – A defence with sieve like qualities contributing to their worst record of goals conceded in a Premiership season. Lopetegui, known for prioritising defensive stability, is taking decisive action to shore up the back line.
West Ham might have found a clever solution to land a promising defender without breaking the bank. The Hammers are owed £12.5 million by Lyon from the transfer of Said Benrahma. Technical director Tim Steidten has proposed a creative deal: using this outstanding debt as leverage in negotiations for O’Brien.
Lyon are reportedly under financial constraints, making them more receptive to deals that reduce their expenditure rather than generate immediate cash. West Ham’s offer could be highly attractive – essentially acquiring a talented player whilst paying nearly nothing to the French club.
O’Brien, a 23-year-old Republic of Ireland international, is a highly-rated prospect. He could potentially fill the void left by the much missed Craig Dawson, who departed for Wolves (managed by Lopetegui) last season. Landing O’Brien would not only strengthen the defence but also free up transfer funds for West Ham to address other areas.
Steidten’s proposed deal highlights a shift in West Ham’s transfer strategy. By leveraging their existing financial situation, they can potentially acquire a valuable player while remaining financially prudent.
The O’Brien deal, if successful, would be a significant coup for West Ham. It would mark the beginning of Lopetegui’s defensive overhaul and showcase Steidten’s creativity in the transfer market. Whether this innovative approach can transform West Ham’s fortunes remains to be seen, but it’s a transfer saga worth following.
I dreamt I read the same article a few days ago on here. Then Bobby Ewing walked out the shower ….
🤣😂🤣
A class youngster that looks like a good deal. The big question is ‘would w3 buy him for the price Lyon want if they didn’t owe us for Benny?’
If we wouldn’t, why accept a second choice option?