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United States Men’s National Team midfielder Tanner Tessmann, currently with Lyon, is reportedly attracting attention from clubs in both England and Italy. Lyon are said to be open to selling the player if they receive an offer in the region of €20–25 million (approximately $23–29 million). The American midfielder could feature prominently at this summer’s World Cup if a deal materialises in time.

What’s the situation?

As reported by The Athletic, Lyon turned down a bid from Atletico Madrid in January, which would have seen Tessmann join fellow USMNT midfielder Johnny Cardoso at the Spanish club. Tessmann, however, was believed to be content staying in France to finish the season with Lyon, having joined them from Venezia in 2024.

Now, with the World Cup fast approaching, interest in Tessmann has risen again from clubs in England and Italy. The 24-year-old, who came through the FC Dallas academy, previously played in Serie A and opted to move to Lyon in 2024 despite interest from several Italian sides.

Tessmann’s stint at Lyon

Since his arrival, Tessmann has featured in 76 matches for Lyon across domestic and European competitions. This season alone, he made 41 appearances in all tournaments, scoring twice, including one goal in the Europa League from nine outings. His consistent performances have drawn praise for his composure and versatility in midfield.

Although a late-season muscle injury sidelined him for Lyon’s final games, the issue is not expected to affect his availability for the World Cup this summer.

World Cup ambitions

Tessmann is widely tipped to be part of the USMNT’s squad for the upcoming World Cup, having shown strong form under coach Mauricio Pochettino. The midfielder has earned 14 international caps so far, starting three of the team’s last six matches and scoring his first goal for the national side in November’s 5–1 victory over Uruguay.

While Tyler Adams is the favourite to anchor the midfield, Tessmann is among the key players competing to partner him in the centre. Speaking last autumn about his World Cup aspirations, Tessmann emphasised his commitment to the team’s success rather than individual accolades.

“The ultimate aim is for the United States to win the World Cup,” he told GOAL in October. “It’s not about me personally winning it. When the country wins, we all win. My focus is on doing whatever I can to help make that happen. Even when I’m not selected, it’s disappointing, but seeing the team perform well makes me proud. I just want to stay fit, be available, and keep control over what I can.”

He added, “In the end, selection is up to others, and I respect that. What matters most is America winning the World Cup, not me individually.”

What’s next for Tessmann?

Lyon have just concluded their Ligue 1 campaign, finishing fourth in France’s top division — a result that secures them a spot in the Champions League’s third qualifying round. Tessmann now awaits the USMNT’s official 26-man World Cup squad announcement, scheduled for Tuesday, where he hopes his name will be among those selected.