Looking at the biggest success stories among Ireland footballers this season, you could make an argument that Jake O’Brien was the most pleasing of the lot.
The Cork native made the surprising move to Lyon last summer, joining in a £2million deal from Crystal Palace having impressed in the Belgian second tier during the previous campaign. It was not clear how involved the defender would be during his first year in France, although it did not take long for him to make a breakthrough.
After being drafted into the Lyon side at the start of October, O’Brien would go on to become a key figure at the club. He would help their rise from relegation trouble to the European places, also reaching a French Cup final along the way.
The 23-year old would make his Ireland debut earlier this month, with his form in Ligue 1 having also captured the attentions of some major clubs on the continent. The likes of Borussia Dortmund and Juventus have been linked with his services in recent times.
However, it seems as though a move to the Premier League could also be on the cards for the Ireland star.
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Ireland star could be offered in Premier League swap deal
HITC are reporting that Jake O’Brien could be involved in a swap deal with Everton, with Lyon said to be keen to sign Ben Godfrey this summer.
Everton have been linked with the Irishman for a number of months, with their interest reported as far back as the January transfer window. They are likely to be in search of defensive reinforcements over the coming weeks, with both Godfrey and Jarrad Branthwaite linked with moves elsewhere.
Lyon are said to have submitted a bid well in excess £10million for Ben Godfrey. The report suggests that they would be willing to grease the wheels on a deal for O’Brien if a deal for the Englishman could be agreed, although Atalanta will rival them for the Everton player.
It seems as though O’Brien will receive no shortage of interest this summer, although the Ireland star needs to be wise in deciding his next move. Having made a major breakthrough in recent times, consistent playing time must be a priority for him next season.
Everton would be an intriguing fit, although he may well prefer to stay on the continent considering his successes in both France and Belgium. It will be interesting to see how the situation develops over the coming weeks.
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