Jake O’Brien has completed his move to Everton.
The center-back joins the Toffees from Lyon for an undisclosed fee, believed to be around £17 million, and has signed a four-year contract. O’Brien returns to the Premier League just a year after leaving Crystal Palace.
During the 2023-24 season, he had an impressive stint with Lyon, helping them secure sixth place in Ligue 1 and reach the Coupe de France final, where they were defeated by Paris Saint-Germain. The 23-year-old has also been capped for the Republic of Ireland.
O’Brien is Everton’s fifth signing of the summer transfer window, following Tim Iroegbunam, Iliman Ndiaye, Jack Harrison, and Jesper Lindstrom.
“I’m buzzing and so happy to have signed for Everton,” O’Brien told evertontv. “I’ve been dreaming of this kind of move in the Premier League, with such a historic club. It’s a very exciting move for me.
“Everton is a huge club with a lot of history behind it and there’s a big future as well. When the transfer window opened, there were other clubs interested in me, but there was only one club I wanted to join – Everton.”
Everton manager Sean Dyche said: “Jake further strengthens our talented core of center-backs and adds competition to our squad, which can help us continue to progress.
“He is still young but has earned valuable experience both abroad and at the international level, and has many impressive attributes to become a top-quality player for Everton in the Premier League.”
Director of football Kevin Thelwell said: “Jake was much sought-after following an excellent season with Lyon, and we are delighted he wanted his future to be with Everton.
“He’s only just turned 23 and, under the guidance of Sean and his coaching staff, can keep improving and will be a player Evertonians love to watch.
“Jake has plenty of standout qualities that we are confident will make him a valuable addition to the club for many years to come.”
