Everton Signs Defender Jake O'Brien for £17 Million

Everton has signed Irish defender Jake O'Brien from Lyon for a reported fee around £17 million (€20 million), with a four-year contract extending to 2028. O'Brien, who previously played for Crystal Palace and made 27 appearances for Lyon last season, chose Everton over several other clubs due to his admiration for manager Sean Dyche's development of young defenders like Jarrad Branthwaite. O'Brien aims to repay the club's faith in him and hopes to contribute significantly in the Premier League. This signing marks Everton's fifth of the summer as they continue to bolster their squad. O'Brien's move also benefits his former club, Cork City, and Crystal Palace, with the latter receiving a portion of the transfer fee due to a sell-on clause.