O’Brien Set for Wrexham Switch as Ambitious Club Eyes Championship Push
Wrexham AFC are closing in on a deal to land Nottingham Forest midfielder Lewis O’Brien, as the North Wales side continue to flex their muscles in the transfer market.
The 26-year-old, who impressed during a short-term loan stint at Swansea City last season, has been attracting plenty of attention from Championship sides this summer. But it now appears Wrexham are in pole position to get the deal done.
A source close to the move described it as “advanced,” with Wrexham understood to be ready to meet both the transfer fee and O’Brien’s wage demands.
“Swansea had been keen to re-sign O’Brien, though their hopes always looked a little slim because of the finances involved in a potential deal.”
Despite just a year left on his contract with Forest, the Red Dragons are expected to pay a substantial fee to secure his signature. A bold move, but one that fits the pattern.
Wrexham aren’t here to make up the numbers. O’Brien has had a stop-start spell since joining Forest from Huddersfield Town following their promotion to the Premier League in 2022. He made just 17 appearances in total.
Still, his loan spells – particularly at Swansea, where he made 16 appearances and helped steer the club well clear of relegation – showcased his quality. He’s also had stints with LAFC, Middlesbrough, and DC United during his time under contract at the City Ground.
Now, he looks set for a new chapter. “O’Brien played 16 times for Swansea after joining on loan in the mid-season window, and played a key role as they pulled clear of relegation danger to finish 11th.”
Wrexham’s intent is crystal clear. Backed by the Hollywood duo of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, the club has already brought in several high-profile names this summer as they gear up for their first Championship campaign in decades.
New recruits include keeper Danny Ward from Leicester, attacker Ryan Hardie from Plymouth, George Thomason from Bolton, and Josh Windass following his exit from Sheffield Wednesday. Not to mention the club-record signing of Liberato Cacace from Italian side Empoli.
Bringing in O’Brien would only add to the growing excitement around the Racecourse Ground.
It’s not just about surviving the Championship. Wrexham wants to compete. Bold moves. Big ambition. And Lewis O’Brien could be the next piece of the puzzle.
