Lyon keep Pavel Šulc after €40 million Wrexham bid falls flat

On a crisp Tuesday morning at the Stade Gerland, the OL Mercato saga unfolded as Czech attacking midfielder Pavel Šulc announced he would remain at Olympique Lyonnais despite a reported offer that could reach €40 million from Welsh Championship side Wrexham.

Wrexham's record-breaking bid

Wrexham had pursued Šulc throughout the summer, targeting the 23‑year‑old as a marquee signing. Sources cited an offer of £35 million, roughly €40 million, which the club said would break its previous transfer‑record. The ambition was to lure the Czech talent to the English fourth tier.

In an interview with Czech outlet Seznam Zprávy, Šulc said, “To be honest, Wrexham is a cult club with a Hollywood story, but I did not want to go to the Championship or a small town in Wales.” He added that he hoped his comment did not sound condescending.

Lyon's profit prospects and contract

OL originally signed Šulc for about €7.5 million, meaning a sale to Wrexham would have yielded a substantial capital gain. Juventus also expressed interest, but the Turin club’s bid fell short of the price required. Šulc laughed, “When Juventus called, I dreamed a little,” before confirming his focus remained on Lyon.

The Czech midfielder arrived in Lyon in 2025 and is contracted until June 2029. His decision to stay aligns with his desire to continue the project he began at the French club.

Šulc’s refusal sparked a flurry of reactions on social media, with fans noting the £40 million offer and the player’s loyalty. The episode underscores how his profile continues to attract interest across Europe despite turning down the Welsh side.