**Wrexham Secure Lewis O’Brien in Landmark Signing, Drawing Comparisons With Jack Wilshere**
Wrexham AFC have further bolstered their ambitions of Championship consolidation, announcing the high-profile signing of midfielder Lewis O’Brien from Nottingham Forest this week in a deal that could eventually be worth up to £5 million. The move sees the 26-year-old commit to a three-year contract at the North Wales club, making him their sixth arrival of the summer transfer window.
Lewis O’Brien, once considered among the Championship’s standout midfielders, arrives at the Racecourse Ground after a nomadic spell that included time on loan at Los Angeles FC and more recently with Swansea City. O’Brien impressed during his stint with the Swans last season, helping them steer clear of relegation and solidify a mid-table finish. His performances in South Wales did not go unnoticed, with Wrexham fending off interest from several rival clubs — including Swansea themselves — to clinch his signature.
The former Nottingham Forest man has earned considerable praise from coaches and team-mates throughout his career, with qualities often likened to those of ex-Arsenal star Jack Wilshere. Shortly after O’Brien’s arrival at Forest in 2022, defender Moussa Niakhate publicly drew the Wilshere comparison following a man-of-the-match display against West Ham United. Managers have highlighted O’Brien’s technical skills, tactical intelligence, and impressive stamina — traits that remain highly coveted in modern midfielders.
Steve Cooper, O’Brien’s former boss at Forest, offered further insight into what Wrexham supporters can expect from their new signing. “Lewis is an excellent carrier of the ball, technically strong and extremely driven,” Cooper said. “He wants to succeed and we believe he has even greater potential to unlock. There’s a real competitive spirit in him, and his ability to learn from peers has always been impressive.”
Further tributes have come from players who previously shared a dressing room with O’Brien. Adam Chicksen, a colleague during their time at Bradford, described O’Brien as “humble and tireless”, adding: “He read the game brilliantly and put himself in positions to have a real impact. What always stood out was his movement, his clean passing, and the calm influence he brought to midfield.”
Despite his undoubted potential, O’Brien’s time at Nottingham Forest ultimately proved frustrating. Limited to just 17 appearances, he found opportunities restricted and went in search of more regular football. A productive spell at Swansea City revitalised his career, laying the foundation for his latest move to Wrexham. For O’Brien, the transfer marks the latest chapter in a whirlwind period for both him and his family.
“Joining Wrexham is a hugely exciting step for me,” O’Brien said upon confirmation of the transfer. “It’s a move that’s taken some time to come together, but now I’ve signed for the long term, it feels like I’ve found somewhere I can make a real home. There’s massive ambition here, and I’m eager to be part of this journey, helping the club reach new heights.”
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson was unequivocal in his welcome for the club’s new recruit. “Lewis brings a wealth of experience at this level, and his energy and composure will be a fantastic addition,” he commented. “We believe he can have a big influence both on and off the pitch and are delighted to have secured his services.”
This high-profile signing is further evidence of Wrexham’s transformation under the stewardship of Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney. The club, which has attracted global attention following back-to-back promotions and the acclaimed Disney+ documentary ‘Welcome to Wrexham’, continues to blend ambitious recruitment with community values, earning new fans both locally and internationally.
As focus now turns to the season ahead, much will be expected of O’Brien as he seeks to live up to the “own Jack Wilshere” moniker. With his blend of skill, dedication, and hunger, Wrexham supporters will be eagerly hoping he can drive the club to further successes in the coming campaign.