Report: West Ham join Leeds in Lewis O’Brien race; would cost £12m

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West Ham have joined Leeds in the race to sign Lewis O’Brien, with TEAMtalk reporting that he has a release clause of just £12 million in his new contract.

O’Brien has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League for some time. And it had appeared that Elland Road may be his most likely destination.

In fact, reports claimed ahead of the final days of the January transfer window that Leeds were willing to trigger his release clause.

O’Brien has been integral for a Huddersfield side that finds itself in promotion contention out of the Championship this term. And the Terriers would have viewed it as a big boost that the 23-year-old stayed put.

Carlos Corberan described the player as ‘very special‘ previously. Unfortunately for Huddersfield, they may be powerless to stop him leaving.

TEAMtalk reports that Leeds remain interested in signing the youngster. But they face a battle with a host of Premier League sides, including West Ham, Crystal Palace and Wolves.

O’Brien a sensible midfield signing for Leeds or West Ham this summer

O’Brien is obviously unproven in the top-flight. And he is still a young player. But he has been superb in the second tier for some time.

And given he would cost just £12 million, you can see why so many Premier League clubs want O’Brien.

He would certainly be a smart signing. And he would presumably leave enough in the kitty for his admirers to strengthen further.

Leeds fans may not be best pleased if O’Brien heads elsewhere. They have been linked for so long now. And Marcelo Bielsa’s side have been crying out for a new midfielder.

If O’Brien joins the likes of West Ham or Palace and thrives, it really will not sit well with many of the Elland Road faithful – especially given that the asking price has been apparent for some time.