O’Brien ‘buzzing’ and ‘so happy’ to join Everton

Defender Jake O’Brien says Everton was the “only” club he wanted to join after completing his move from Lyon.

The 23-year-old has signed a four-year contract until the end of June 2028, in a deal reported to be about £22m.

O’Brien made 32 appearances for French top-flight side Lyon in all competitions last season, having joined from Crystal Palace last summer, and scored five goals.

“I’m buzzing and so happy to have signed for Everton,” he told club media. “I’ve been dreaming of this kind of move in the Premier League, with such a historic club. It’s a very exciting move for me.

“Everton is a huge club with a lot of history behind it and there’s a big future as well.

“When the transfer window opened there were other clubs in for me but there was only one club I wanted to go to – it was Everton.

“They’ve shown the faith in me so now it’s my turn to show why on the pitch.”

The centre-back is a international team-mate of Toffees captain Seamus Coleman and got his first Republic of Ireland cap against Hungary in June.

After securing his fifth signing of the summer, Everton manager Sean Dyche said: “Jake further strengthens our talented core of centre-backs and adds competition to our squad which can help us continue to progress.

“He is still young but has earned valuable experience both abroad and at international level, and has many impressive attributes to become a top-quality player for Everton in the Premier League.”