Hull City prepared to pursue Wrexham player they failed to sign last summer, according to reports.

Hull City Renew Interest In Lewis O’Brien

Hull City are reportedly preparing to revive their pursuit of Lewis O’Brien ahead of the summer transfer window, with the midfielder once again emerging as a target for the Tigers.

The 27-year-old, who previously starred for Huddersfield Town and also spent time with Bradford City, was linked with a move to Hull during the previous transfer window. O’Brien, who has also represented Middlesbrough, eventually completed a permanent departure from Nottingham Forest, although a return to Yorkshire failed to materialise at the time.

Lewis O’Brien joined Wrexham from Nottingham Forest last summer. | Cody Froggatt/PA Wire

Instead, Wrexham won the race for his signature, securing the experienced midfielder as part of their ambitious recruitment drive. Since arriving at the Racecourse Ground, O’Brien has established himself as a key figure in the squad, making 45 appearances while contributing four goals and seven assists across all competitions.

Hull Ready To Make Another Move

According to reporter Alan Nixon via his Patreon page, Hull are now ready to reignite their interest and could make another effort to bring O’Brien to the MKM Stadium this summer.

The Tigers are expected to have greater flexibility in the transfer market once their embargo is lifted, allowing them to target more experienced and proven players ahead of next season. O’Brien is believed to fit the profile of the type of player Hull want to add as they look to strengthen their midfield department.

Reports have also suggested that Hull’s desire to sign the midfielder is not dependent on promotion to the Premier League. Regardless of whether the club remain in the Championship or secure a top-flight return, the Tigers are thought to view O’Brien as someone capable of making an immediate impact.

O’Brien’s Rise Through The Ranks

O’Brien began his football journey in Huddersfield’s academy system and steadily progressed through the ranks before becoming an important member of the first team.

A productive loan spell with Bradford City during the 2017/18 campaign helped accelerate his development, with the energetic midfielder impressing through his work rate and consistent performances. Following his return to Huddersfield, he enjoyed a breakthrough period with the Terriers and quickly became one of the side’s most influential players.

The midfielder played a major role during Huddersfield’s impressive run to the Championship play-off final in 2022. His tireless displays in the centre of the pitch earned widespread praise as the Terriers pushed for promotion to the Premier League.

Nottingham Forest Move Failed To Deliver

Huddersfield’s dream of promotion ended in disappointment after defeat to Nottingham Forest at Wembley. Forest then compounded the Terriers’ misery by signing both O’Brien and his teammate Harry Toffolo shortly after the final.

Although there was significant excitement surrounding O’Brien’s move to the City Ground, his spell with Forest ultimately failed to develop as many had expected. The midfielder struggled to secure a regular role in the first team and spent much of his time away from the club on loan.

During that period, O’Brien had spells with D.C. United, Middlesbrough, Los Angeles FC and Swansea City as he searched for regular game time and consistency.

Eventually, he brought his Nottingham Forest stay to an end by sealing a permanent transfer to Wrexham last summer, where he has since rebuilt momentum in his career.

Would O’Brien Be A Good Signing For Hull?

There is little doubt that O’Brien’s Championship pedigree and experience could make him a valuable addition for Hull City. His energy, pressing ability and versatility in midfield would likely suit the demands of the Championship and potentially even the Premier League should Hull achieve promotion.

However, persuading Wrexham to part company with the midfielder may not be straightforward. Having only signed him less than a year ago, the Welsh club could be reluctant to lose a player who has already become an important part of their setup.

Lewis O’Brien made 131 appearances for Huddersfield Town after graduating from the club’s academy. | Bruce Rollinson

O’Brien’s leadership qualities and wealth of experience at Championship level make him a significant asset, meaning Hull may need to present a convincing offer if they hope to secure his services during the upcoming transfer window.