Tanner Tessmann’s stance on his future may be the clearest indication yet that the Lyon midfielder is in no rush to leave France this summer.
Leeds United have been linked with the United States international, and while he is clearly willing to look at a possible exit, The Athletic report that he will not entertain offers until after the World Cup.
The 24-year-old has elevated his reputation significantly since arriving from Venezia in 2024. At Lyon, he has become one of the most reliable midfielders in Ligue 1. It earned interest from Atletico Madrid.
Atlético Madrid interest in January proves Tessmann ability
The strongest signal around Tessmann’s future is not Leeds United’s interest. It is the fact that Atlético Madrid already tried to sign him in January and Lyon still decided to keep him.
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Tessmann was also described as happy in France, which matters because Lyon are under no pressure to force a sale while he remains under contract until 2029. That gives the French side complete control.
The report does indicate however, that Tessmann will wait until after the World Cup before considering offers. It is claimed that offers between £18m and £21m could be enough to land his signature.
Tessmann has thrived as one of Lyon’s most dependable passers
Tessmann’s development at Lyon explains why his market has shifted so quickly over the last 12 months. The midfielder recorded close to an 89% pass completion rate in Ligue 1, underlining his ability.
He has also established himself as a regular Lyon starter, helping transform perceptions of him since his move from Serie B with Venezia. Lyon’s midfield structure has clearly suited him because he now looks calmer, cleaner and more progressive on the ball than at any previous point in his career.
The World Cup timing makes Tessmann’s stance understandable
Tessmann’s current focus also appears straightforward. The midfielder is expected to be involved with the United States this summer despite suffering a recent muscle strain, with the tournament likely to take priority before any major career decision is made.
That could see him join Brenden Aaronson, alongside former Leeds midfielders Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie, in the United States setup this summer. Stability before a World Cup often matters more than chasing a transfer, especially for players whose club form has already put them in a strong position.
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The winger has hinted he is leaving, amid links with Freiburg.
Leeds still have obvious reasons to pursue a deal
None of that means Leeds United’s interest should be dismissed. The club’s recent relationship with Lyon has already strengthened after the deal for Lucas Perri, while Tessmann’s profile would make obvious sense in a Premier League midfield.
Reports have also suggested Lyon are open to selling if the valuation is right, which means Leeds could still have an opportunity later in the window. The key detail for now, though, is that Tessmann himself does not appear to be forcing the situation.
Tessmann’s stance ultimately says more than the transfer rumours around him. Lyon has already helped raise his standing across Europe, and with a World Cup approaching, there is little evidence to suggest he sees any need to rush the next step of his career.
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