GOOD NEWS:Sean dyche son has sign a huge contract with Everton…

Everton have agreed a deal in principle with Lyon to sign centre-back Jake O’Brien, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Toffees have been linked with a new defender all summer, with uncertainty surrounding the future of star man Jarrad Branthwaite amid interest from Manchester United.

But the Blues have now covered themselves in the centre-back department by agreeing a deal with the Ligue 1 giants for a player who has been a target for much of the window.

Everton Agree Deal for Jake O’Brien

O’Brien only moved to Ligue 1 in the summer of 2023 after leaving Crystal Palace for just £1million, but he impressed hugely last season and caught the attention of several Premier League clubs this summer.

Known for his “exceptional” aerial prowess and size, the Republic of Ireland international is expected to fit into the Sean Dyche way of playing perfectly and will compete for a starting spot alongside Branthwaite and vice-captain James Tarkowski.

However a deal isn’t completely done yet despite an agreement with Lyon, with Fabrizio Romano reporting via X that there is no agreement on personal terms just yet for a move to Goodison Park. If the 23-year-old agrees terms, then he is expected to undergo a medical on Sunday (28 July) ahead of completing a transfer back to England.

O’Brien has agreed on a five-year deal to move to Merseyside, but a medical could potentially be pushed back to Monday (29 July) in order for paperwork to be completed first.

West Ham have also had an interest in O’Brien as they look to bolster their squad, but Everton have now seemingly won the race for his signature.

Jarrad Branthwaite Future Still Uncertain

Part of the reason for a move for O’Brien is that Branthwaite’s future remains uncertain, with the Toffees rejecting two bids from Manchester United for his services earlier in the window.