Jake O'Brien Set for Everton Move in €20m Deal from Lyon

Jake O'Brien, the highly-rated 23-year-old centre-back from Olympique Lyon, is set to become Everton's latest signing. According to renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano, O'Brien will undergo his medical on Monday before putting pen to paper on a contract that will keep him at Goodison Park until June 2029.

The move, which sees Everton shell out €20m plus a 10% sell-on clause, was exclusively revealed yesterday. This transfer is not only a significant step in O'Brien's career but also brings a financial boost to his former club, Cork City, who will receive 1.5% of the transfer fee, amounting to €300,000. This is in addition to the €150,000 Cork earned from O'Brien's move to Lyon from Crystal Palace last summer.

Stellar Performance at Lyon

O'Brien's performances in Ligue 1 last season have caught the attention of several top clubs. With a tackle win percentage of 72.70%, he has demonstrated his defensive prowess. Furthermore, his ball retention skills rank him in the 86th percentile, and he stands in the 79th percentile for one v one defending, underscoring his capability as a robust and reliable defender.

International Debut

Adding to his impressive club performances, O'Brien made his debut for the Republic of Ireland last month in a match against Hungary. This milestone highlights his growing reputation on the international stage and his potential to become a mainstay in Ireland's defensive lineup.

Future Prospects

Everton fans will be eager to see how O'Brien adapts to the Premier League, bringing his strong defensive skills and international experience to the team. His long-term contract suggests that Everton sees him as a cornerstone of their defensive strategy for years to come.

Set-Piece Threat

In addition to O'Brien's arrival, it looks like Jarrad Branthwaite will remain at Goodison Park despite previous links with a big-money move to Manchester United. With both O'Brien and Branthwaite standing at 6'5", Everton will pose a significant threat from set pieces in the Premier League. This physical presence in the box will be a key asset for Sean Dyche's side, providing both defensive solidity and offensive power.

As O'Brien prepares for his medical and subsequent move to Everton, Sean Dyche will be delighted to welcome the Irish international. This transfer marks a significant step for both the player and his new club, promising to add strength and stability to Everton's defense.