- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
Everton are closing in on another signing to bolster Sean Dyche’s squad with Lyon defender Jake O’Brien now nearing a move to Goodison Park.
The Toffees were in another battle for Premier League survival last season but managed to avoid the drop – despite an eight-point deduction.
Sean Dyche wants to drag Everton away from the bottom end of the table and the transfer window has already been a busy one.
Let’s start with the outs; Ben Godfrey has joined Atalanta whilst both Lewis Dobbin and Amadou Onana have signed for Aston Villa.
Midfielder Tim Iroegbunam arrived from Villa whilst Everton have also brought in former Sheffield United star Iliman Ndiaye from Marseille.
Loans for Jack Harrison and Jesper Lindstrom have been agreed and Everton are now closing in on another addition ahead of the new season.
Everton close in on Jake O’Brien
Everton sources have confirmed to HITC that a deal is in place with Lyon for their Irish central defender Jake O’Brien.
The Toffees have come to agreement with Lyon over a deal worth £16million for the former Crystal Palace talent.
Terms have been agreed on a five-year deal for the 23-year-old – who is due for his medical on Merseyside on Monday.
James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite formed a strong partnership last season but O’Brien will give Dyche another option at centre back.
Everton are still planning to keep Branthwaite despite Manchester United interest and the breakdown of Dan Friedkin’s potential takeover.
Who is Everton target O’Brien?
O’Brien hails from Cork and came up in the Cork City ranks, making just 13 first-team appearances before heading to Palace in 2021.
Palace initially took O’Brien on loan before landing him permanently.
O’Brien spent time on loan at Swindon Town and partner club RWD Molenbeek before leaving permanently without making a senior appearance at Selhurst Park.
The 23-year-old joined another one of John Textor’s clubs by signing for French side Lyon.
O’Brien featured prominently last season and bagged five goals in all competitions.
“I’m always wanting to add goals to my game because I’m a physical defender in both boxes,” said O’Brien whilst speaking to Get French Football News in May.
A giant presence at 6ft 6in tall, O’Brien has now earned two caps for the Republic of Ireland and there should be plenty more to come as he prepares for a Premier League move.
- READ: 50 MOST LIKELY PREMIER LEAGUE, EFL AND EUROPEAN SUMMER 2024 FOOTBALL TRANSFERS
The post Sources: Everton close to signing 'physical' defender as medical now imminent appeared first on HITC.
Next