Everton Open to Selling Jake O'Brien
Everton are expected to listen to offers for 25-year-old defender Jake O’Brien, who has been used mainly as a makeshift right-back during the 2025-26 season. The Republic of Ireland international, standing 6ft 6in (198 cm), has expressed a desire to play regularly in his preferred central role, something the club cannot guarantee at present.
Current Situation
O’Brien was an unused substitute in Everton’s 2-0 victory over Crystal Palace, where captain James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite started as the central pairing and versatile Merlin Rohl filled in on the right. He was left on the bench for the season opener, leaving his future uncertain. With Tarkowski named captain, the pathway to a regular start for O’Brien is unclear.
Transfer Interest
Sources briefed on the situation say Everton will now be open to offers for O’Brien. He is attracting interest from clubs across England, Italy and France ahead of the transfer deadline. A departure would leave Everton with only three senior centre-backs - James Tarkowski, Jarrad Branthwaite and Michael Keane - and would almost certainly require the club to strengthen that area.
Right-Back Search
Everton also remain on the lookout for a new right-back. The club has shown interest in Palace’s Daniel Munoz and Fulham’s Timothy Castagne, among others, as they look to shore up the side’s defensive options.
Implications for the Squad
If O’Brien leaves, Everton would need to add a fourth central defender to maintain depth. The club’s current defensive core would be pared down, potentially affecting squad rotation and injury cover. The decision to sell would also reflect the club’s willingness to reshape its back-line in the face of competition for places.
O’Brien’s Profile
Standing 6ft 6in, O’Brien has impressed in his fleeting appearances at centre-back. He performed admirably last season in a makeshift right-sided role, but his lack of attacking game often left the side’s wingers isolated. The defender has been clear that he wants to challenge for minutes in his favoured role, yet a pathway to regular starts remains far from clear.
Everton’s willingness to consider a sale underscores the club’s pragmatic approach to squad management as the transfer window enters its final stretch.
