Everton transfer news as ‘Desperate’ twist emerges on Jake O’Brien
Everton are interested in signing Lyon defender Jake O’Brien but the French outfit are “desperate” to keep him this month, according to the Daily Express.
The UK news outlet shared (29 January) that the Toffees are keeping an eye on the talented Irish defender this month as they prepare for life without Jarrad Branthwaite in the near future.
However, Lyon have made it clear that they are not willing to sell this month but Everton are reluctant to give up their chase for his signature.
There is also talk of terminating Arnaut Danjuma’s loan spell at Goodison Park so he can sign for Les Gones if it increases the likelihood of O’Brien being allowed to leave.
Clubs in the Premier League, Serie A and Bundesliga are all keeping track of the 22-year-old, who has made a stunning impression at the club becoming the first Irish star to play in Ligue 1 for more than two decades.
Understandable stance
Lyon are in the midst of a gruelling relegation battle right now and will not be willing to allow any of their star players to depart the club this month.
O’Brien’s performances have come as a surprise, as despite arriving in August, it was expected that he would leave on loan to get more first-team experience.
However, he quickly impressed then-manager Laurent Blanc before consolidating his place in the starting line-up under Fabio Grosso. O’Brien has gone on to score three goals for the club in 13 Ligue 1 games – becoming one of their top scorers.
Everton’s interest in the talented defender is of no surprise given his stunning development and their lack of options in the role.
And it seems as if the Toffees are preparing for Branthwaite; ‘s exit soon enough with so many of Europe’s elite sides watching over his development.
With the likes of Ben Godfrey and Michael Keane likely to depart Goodison Park, and loanee Mason Holgate also set to depart, Dyche will be desperate for centre-back options but also defenders of a similar age and profile to Branthwaite for future sustainability and more marketable opportunities in future.
In other Everton news, the Toffees’ transfer deal to sign an in-form player in January will now include a £7m option to buy.
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