Premier League > Everton > Everton’s €20 Million Signing: Can This Irish Defender Follow in Branthwaite’s Footsteps?

Everton’s €20 Million Signing: Can This Irish Defender Follow in Branthwaite’s Footsteps?

Dublin, Ireland. 05th June, 2024. Jake O'Brien of Ireland during the International Friendly match between Republic of Ireland and Hungary at Aviva Stadium in Dublin, Ireland on June 4, 2024 (Photo by Andrew SURMA/ Credit: Sipa US/Alamy Live News
© Alamy / Sipa US

Everton completes the signing of Jake O’Brien from Olympique Lyonnais for €20 million. O’Brien aims to replicate Jarrad Branthwaite’s development under Sean Dyche at Everton. The transfer highlights Everton’s commitment to strengthening their defensive line with young talents.

  • Everton signs Jake O’Brien from Olympique Lyonnais for €20 million.
  • O’Brien has signed a contract with Everton until June 30, 2028.
  • The Irish defender aims to follow in Jarrad Branthwaite’s footsteps under Sean Dyche.

Jake O’Brien’s Move to Everton: A Strategic Acquisition

Everton FC has officially announced the signing of 23-year-old centre-back Jake O’Brien from Olympique Lyonnais for a transfer fee of €20 million. The Irish defender, born in Cork, Ireland, has penned a contract with Everton that runs until June 30, 2028. This move underscores Everton’s strategy to bolster their defense with young, promising talent.


O’Brien, standing at an imposing 1.97 meters, has demonstrated his abilities in various leagues, including Ligue 1, Premier League 2, and the Challenger Pro League. His career statistics are commendable:

  • Ligue 1 (Lyon): 27 appearances, 2 goals
  • Premier League 2: 25 appearances, 4 goals
  • Challenger Pro League: 20 appearances, 2 goals
  • League Two: 19 appearances, 1 goal

Sean Dyche’s Influence on Young Defenders

Sean Dyche, the current manager of Everton FC, is known for his expertise in defensive organization and his ability to develop young defenders. Dyche’s managerial career includes notable stints at Burnley and Watford, where he earned a reputation for nurturing young talents.

At Burnley, Dyche led the team to a seventh-place finish in the Premier League and a European campaign, highlighting his strategic acumen. Now at Everton, his task is to stabilize the club and continue developing young talents.

Jake O’Brien expressed his excitement about joining Everton, saying, “You see how Sean Dyche develops young centre-halves and what he has done for Jarrad, it’s something I want to replicate!”

Jarrad Branthwaite: A Model for Success

Jarrad Branthwaite, a 22-year-old centre-back for Everton, serves as a prime example of Dyche’s ability to mold young defenders. Branthwaite has made 34 Premier League appearances, scoring 2 goals, with an impressive pass completion rate of 87.2% and winning 68.7% of his duels.

Under Dyche’s guidance, Branthwaite has significantly improved his defensive skills and overall game understanding. Dyche has praised Branthwaite for his assured character and physical presence, which have made him a standout performer at Everton.

Branthwaite’s development under Dyche sets a promising precedent for Jake O’Brien, who hopes to achieve similar growth and success at Everton.

Further Reading and Context

For more detailed information on Jake O’Brien’s transfer and related insights, visit the following links:

Jake O’Brien’s move to Everton is a significant step for both the player and the club. Under the experienced management of Sean Dyche, O’Brien has the potential to develop into a top-tier centre-back, following in the footsteps of Jarrad Branthwaite. This transfer underscores Everton’s dedication to reinforcing their defense with young, skilled players.

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