Everton are expected to consider a sale of Republic of Ireland defender Jake O'Brien ahead of the transfer deadline. The 25-year-old, who joined the club in a £17 million move from Lyon in 2024, is attracting interest from clubs in England, Italy and France.
O'Brien's Role and Ambitions
O'Brien spent much of last season as a makeshift right-back, but he has repeatedly expressed a desire to play in his preferred central defensive position. He was an unused substitute in the 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace, where James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite started as the central pairing and Merlin Rohl filled in on the right. With only five of his 37 Premier League appearances coming in the centre, the defender feels that Everton cannot guarantee him a regular start in that role.
Interest from Abroad
Sources briefed on the situation say that O'Brien is the subject of interest from clubs across England, Italy and France ahead of next Tuesday’s deadline. A departure would leave Everton with just three senior central-defence options - the others being Michael Keane and the unnamed third - and would almost certainly require a new signing in that area.
Impact on Everton's Defensive Options
Everton are already looking to strengthen their defensive line. The club has shown interest in Crystal Palace’s Daniel Munoz and Fulham’s Timothy Castagne as potential right-back replacements. The departure of O'Brien would also prompt the club to consider a new striker, with Beto on the radar of Italian clubs and Chelsea’s Liam Delap a player admired by manager David Moyes.
Upcoming Fixtures
O'Brien’s future remains uncertain as Everton travel to Championship side Preston North End on Wednesday for a Carabao Cup second-round tie, before facing Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium on Saturday.
Analysis
Standing at 6ft 6in (198cm) and quick across the ground, O'Brien has impressed in his fleeting appearances at centre-back. While Moyes appreciated his height and defensive nous, his lack of attacking output often left the team’s wingers isolated. With Tarkowski named captain, a clear pathway to regular starts for O'Brien is far from certain.
Everton’s willingness to entertain offers for O'Brien reflects the club’s need to balance defensive depth with the ambition to secure a regular starter in his preferred position. The transfer window remains open, and any move would be a significant decision for both the player and the club.
