Everton have made a significant addition to their squad, signing Irish center-back Jake O’Brien from Ligue 1 side Olympique Lyonnais on a four-year contract. The Premier League club announced the move on Tuesday, bolstering their defensive options ahead of the upcoming season.
While financial details of the transfer were not disclosed by Everton, British media reports suggest that the deal is worth around 17 million pounds ($21.82 million). The 23-year-old O’Brien began his professional career with his hometown club, Cork City, before making the move to Crystal Palace in 2021.
Following loan stints with League Two club Swindon Town and Belgian side RWD Molenbeek, O’Brien joined Lyon last year. He made a notable impact in his time with the French club, featuring in 32 matches across all competitions.
Everton manager Sean Dyche expressed his enthusiasm about the signing, highlighting O’Brien’s potential to contribute to the team’s ongoing development. “Jake further strengthens our talented core of centre backs and adds competition to our squad which can help us continue to progress,” Dyche said in a statement.
He praised O’Brien’s experience gained both abroad and at the international level, emphasizing his belief in the young defender’s ability to excel in the Premier League. “He is still young but has earned valuable experience both abroad and at international level, and has many impressive attributes to become a top-quality player for Everton in the Premier League.”
Everton will kick off their Premier League campaign on August 17 with a home match against Brighton & Hove Albion at Goodison Park. O’Brien will be looking to make an immediate impact and contribute to the Toffees’ pursuit of a successful season.
