Everton Set to Secure £17m Deal for Lyon Centre-Back Jake O’Brien

Everton are on the verge of signing highly-rated Lyon centre-back Jake O’Brien in a £17m deal, with the player scheduled to undergo medical tests on Monday. O’Brien has given the green light to a move to Goodison Park, choosing Everton over interest from Nottingham Forest, West Ham United, and other clubs.

Everton’s sporting director Kevin Thelwell has been pursuing O’Brien for 12 months, and his persistence has finally paid off. The Toffees have been seeking a new centre-back since selling Ben Godfrey to Atalanta, and O’Brien will compete with Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski for a starting spot.

According to transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano, O’Brien’s move to Everton is set to be completed imminently. “Jake O’Brien will undergo medical as new Everton player on Monday, then signing contract until June 2029,” Romano revealed. “O’Brien joins on €20m (approx. £17m) deal plus 10% sell-on clause from Olympique Lyon.”

O’Brien joined Lyon from Crystal Palace last summer for a bargain €1m (approx. £850k) after failing to make a single appearance for the Eagles. His move to Everton represents a significant coup for the club, who are also interested in signing Kalvin Phillips from Manchester City.

With O’Brien’s signing, Everton are strengthening their defense ahead of the new season. The club has already rejected two bids from Manchester United for Jarrad Branthwaite and is open to selling Mason Holgate this summer.

O’Brien’s arrival will provide a welcome boost to Sean Dyche’s squad, who are looking to build on last season’s performances. The Republic of Ireland international brings a wealth of experience and talent to the team, and his partnership with Branthwaite and Tarkowski could prove formidable.

As Everton prepare for the new season, fans will be eagerly awaiting the arrival of O’Brien and potentially Phillips. With these signings, the Toffees could be set for a strong start to the campaign.