Everton add Irish international defender Jake O'Brien to their ranks

Everton has added to their defensive line-up by signing Republic of Ireland international Jake O’Brien from Olympique Lyonnais. The centre-back has inked a four-year deal with the Blues, keeping him at the club until June 2028. 

O’Brien is Everton’s fifth signing this summer, following the arrivals of Jack Harrison, Tim Iroegbunam, Iliman Ndiaye, and Jesper Lindstrøm.

Standing at 6ft 6in, O’Brien joined Lyon from Crystal Palace last August and quickly made an impact, helping Lyon secure a sixth-place finish in Ligue 1 and a Europa League spot.

He made 32 appearances and scored five goals, including in the Coupe de France final against PSG.

In June, O’Brien earned his first cap for Ireland, playing alongside Everton captain Seamus Coleman in a win over Hungary.

“I’m buzzing and so happy to have signed for Everton,” O’Brien told evertontv.

“I’ve been dreaming of this move in the Premier League with such a historic club. Everton is a huge club with a lot of history and a bright future.”

Despite interest from other clubs, O’Brien was clear about his choice.

“There were other clubs in for me, but Everton was the only one I wanted. They’ve shown faith in me, and now it's my turn to show why on the pitch.”

Describing his playing style as dynamic and forward-thinking, O’Brien said, “I’m a ball-playing centre half, fast, and I like to attack in both boxes. Sean Dyche’s development of young centre-halves, like Jarrad Branthwaite, is something I admire and want to replicate.”

O’Brien began his career at Cork City before moving to Crystal Palace’s academy in February 2021.

After a permanent transfer to Selhurst Park, he had loan spells at Swindon Town and Belgian club RWD Molenbeek, preceding his move to Lyon.

Speaking highly of Everton captain Seamus Coleman, O’Brien said, “Seamus has been on to me to sign for Everton! He’s a top guy, a brilliant captain, and playing under him here as well as with Ireland will be a privilege.”

Manager Sean Dyche welcomed O’Brien’s addition, stating, “Jake strengthens our core of centre-backs and adds competition to our squad. He is young but has valuable experience abroad and at international level.”

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