Reports: USMNT's Tanner Tessmann on the verge of transfer to Lyon from Venezia

U.S. international Tanner Tessman is close to sealing a move away from Venezia, according to various reports.

The highly-coveted midfielder, who had been linked with Inter earlier this summer, is near a move to Olympique Lyonnais in Ligue 1. Tessmann is coming off a career year, scoring six goals and adding three assists, and helped Venezia return to Serie A.

With the 22-year-old having one year left on his contract, he increasingly looked likely to leave the Venice-based club.

After qualifying for the Europa League this season, Lyon were reportedly looking for an upgrade at defensive midfield. They will be hoping Tessmann can provide a boost there.

ESPN and Hugo Guillemet were among the first to report the news.

Tessmann has two U.S. senior appearances, but he was a key member of the Olympic team that advanced out of the group stages this summer. He is seen as a rising player in the national pool and this move will only help his chances of getting more senior opportunities.

Lyon is historically one of Ligue 1's giants and play in the second-best European competition on the continent. Tessmann, who has progressed each season since leaving FC Dallas a teenager, has a chance to continue to develop his game.

Lyon and Venezia are reportedly negotiating over the transfer fee. The French club are looking to pay $5.6 million, while the Serie A side are holding out for $7.8 million.

Tessmann was not named to Venezia's squad ahead of their opening Serie A match against Lazio due to speculation over his future.

Until a move is finalized, Tessmann will remain 'out of project' as Venezia's Filippo Antonelli said according to the media.