O'Donovan was released by Micky Adams after a handful of appearances for City Reserves and returned to his native Ireland where he impressed at Cork City.
He was spotted by Sunderland and moved to Wearside. However, this week, he has been allowed to join Blackpool on loan for the rest of the season.
"I haven't come here to make up the numbers. I want to play, do well and enjoy my football," O'Donovan told the Blackpool Gazette.
"This is a big chance for me. I'm 23 and I think I've got my best years ahead of me.
"I'm a Blackpool player now and I want to enjoy that and get some good results under my belt while I am here."
Former City striker Craig Bellamy is the subject of a £10m bid from Manchester City according to the Daily Mirror, whilst Birmingham have been reported as being interested in signing Callum Davenport on loan from West Ham.