USMNT midfielder Tanner Tessmann torn over Premier League transfer

Tom Weber

• 11 Mar 2026 20:00 CDT
• 3 min read

News

Lyon midfielder Tanner Tessmann is unsure over whether to pursue a move to the Premier League this summer, according to French media.

The 24-year-old has been a regular for Lyon since joining from Serie A side Venezia for €6 million in 2024. His solid form in France allowed Tessmann to return to the USMNT fold, and he is now expected to be part of Mauricio Pochettino's World Cup squad.

The FC Dallas homegrown's form has also not gone unnoticed in the Premier League, L'Equipe reports. In January, Brentford attempted to sign the American, but the player wasn't interested.

Tessmann, it is asserted, remains unconvinced by the affection shown towards him from England. However, Lyon are said to be actively shopping the midfielder around in a bid to raise funds.

There is a growing sense at the club that Tessmann's style of play does not exactly suit Paulo Fonseca's system. Consequently, Lyon would not be opposed to cashing in on him as a healthy profit awaits. His Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) has climbed to €12.3m.

Tessmann a wanted man

Described as "lacking technique and mobility," Tessmann's physicality is thought to be much better suited to English football. At present, injuries and a general lack of squad depth at Lyon have led to the American "playing a leading role in midfield, where his limitations are glaringly obvious."

L'Equipe received its information from a French recruiter who currently works for a Premier League club. He insists that Tessmann has so far not really been receptive to the interest from England, despite having no shortage of suitors.

He is still under contract at Lyon until 2029, so he may either have to agree to leave this summer or risk being replaced and stuck on the bench. Data from analytics firm SciSports suggests that he should reconsider his stance on a Premier League transfer.

According to SciSports' Career Advice tool, which analyses several factors such as playing time, development potential and more, Tessmann would be an ideal fit for Fulham, who have a proud history of signing Americans.

Their Club Fit score of 83 out of 100 is the highest of any club, followed by PSV - another club known for signing USMNT stars - with a rating of 81. Galatasaray and Nottingham Forest clock in at 80.

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