£20m bid update emerges as Everton eye Jake O'Brien transfer
Everton are now preparing a £20million bid to beat West Ham and Nottingham Forest to the services of Lyon defender Jake O'Brien, according to Ferveur Lyonnaise.
The French news outlet reported on 8 July that the Ireland international appears set for a summer exit.
Lyon are understood to be holding out for £30million in order to part ways with the 23-year-old centre-back.
Everton eye Jake O'Brien as a potential Jarrad Branthwaite replacement
Foot01 reported on 8 July that a £16.8million bid had been tabled by the Toffees, but that's clearly fallen way short of Lyon's expectations.
The 23-year-old is a towering presence at 6'6", which would make him an imposing figure in the defence.
This height advantage would be particularly useful in aerial duels and set-piece situations.
O'Brien has shown great promise during his time at Lyon as he has made 32 appearances for the French club, scoring five goals and has also earned his first call-up to the Republic of Ireland national team.
This indicates that he is a player on the rise, with the potential to improve further.
The Toffees are in need of defensive reinforcements, especially if Jarrad Branthwaite leaves the club and the 23-year-old could be the perfect replacement, offering a blend of height, technical ability and room for growth.
However, if Branthwaite stays, Sean Dyche is unlikely to want a big-money move for another centre-back.
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