Lewis O'Brien Set for Permanent Move to LAFC, Leaving Championship Clubs in the Dust

In a transfer twist that has left Championship clubs scrambling, Lewis O’Brien looks set to make his loan move to Los Angeles FC a permanent one, putting an end to speculation about a return to English football. The 26-year-old midfielder, whose loan spell with LAFC is set to end next month, was highly sought after by clubs like Leeds United, Sheffield United, and West Bromwich Albion. However, as reported by Alan Nixon, O’Brien appears to be finalizing a permanent deal in California, ending his time at Nottingham Forest and frustrating multiple Championship suitors.

O’Brien’s potential permanent switch marks a significant shift for both the player and his English admirers. Since joining Nottingham Forest from Huddersfield Town in 2022, O’Brien has struggled to secure his place at the City Ground. Despite strong performances in the Championship during his time at Huddersfield, Forest’s midfield overhaul has led him to pursue consistent game time elsewhere. His stints at D.C. United and Middlesbrough have kept him active and visible, but it was his latest MLS tenure with LAFC that seemingly captured the club’s full attention.

With LAFC keen to lock in O’Brien on a permanent basis, this transfer could be worth around £7 million, cementing O’Brien’s place as one of the more high-profile English players to take on the MLS. The transition from loan player to permanent fixture underscores LAFC’s faith in his abilities to contribute significantly in their midfield setup. This decision aligns with recent trends of English talent finding traction in the United States, offering opportunities to reset their careers in an increasingly competitive league.

Championship clubs have been quick to express their interest, with Leeds and Hull reportedly approaching Nottingham Forest earlier this season in an attempt to negotiate terms. These moves fell flat, however, leaving O’Brien’s availability in question until recent indications of his MLS future came to light. Leeds United’s pursuit is notable, as the club has been actively restructuring its squad to mount a return to the Premier League. West Brom and Sheffield United, too, have seen potential in O’Brien’s skillset, likely hoping his Championship experience and high work rate could bolster their respective promotion campaigns.

For Nottingham Forest, the move represents both a logistical and financial resolution. O’Brien, while a talent on his day, struggled to fit into the club’s system, and LAFC’s willingness to secure him permanently allows Forest some fiscal breathing room. The club has been adapting to the Premier League’s high demands, and O’Brien’s departure could create room for further adjustments within their roster.

While the prospect of O’Brien’s permanent move to MLS may be disappointing for English clubs, it signifies a growing trend of young, competitive players choosing a path outside of Europe to carve out impactful careers. For O’Brien, the Los Angeles lifestyle and consistent role at a competitive MLS side offer an appealing alternative to the often rotational and demanding nature of the Championship.

As Lewis O’Brien’s time in England appears to be drawing to a close, the Championship clubs will need to refocus on alternative midfield options as they gear up for the second half of the season. And with LAFC securing a player whose profile fits their ambitions, O’Brien seems set to leave his mark on American soccer, far from the storied grounds of the Championship.