£20m bid update emerges as Everton eye Jake O’Brien transfer

 Everton is reportedly preparing a £20million bid to secure the services of Lyon defender Jake O’Brien, as reported by Ferveur Lyonnaise on 8 July. The 23-year-old Irish international is said to be on the verge of leaving Lyon this summer, with the club holding out for a £30million fee for the centre-back. Everton had previously tabled a £16.8million bid, but it fell short of Lyon’s valuation. O’Brien, standing at 6’6”, possesses a significant height advantage that could prove valuable in defensive situations. With 32 appearances and five goals for Lyon, as well as a call-up to the Republic of Ireland national team, O’Brien is seen as a player with great potential for further development. Should Jarrad Branthwaite depart, O’Brien could be a suitable replacement for Everton, offering a combination of height, technical skill, and room for growth.