Jake O’Brien to leave Lyon amid Premier League interest

Ireland international centre-back Jake O’Brien (23) is set to leave Lyon after only one season with Les Gones amid strengthened interest from Premier League sides, according to a report this Wednesday from Foot Mercato. The 23-year-old quickly became invaluable to former OL coach Fabio Grosso and incumbent Pierre Sage for his physicality, attitude and defensive nous. O’Brien was signed for just €1m from Crystal Palace in 2023 and exceeded all expectations. He was crowned Ligue 1 signing of the season by Get French Football News.

Such praise and recognition have not gone unnoticed by Premier League clubs. Foot Mercato previously revealed that Brentford FC have got in touch with O’Brien. Besides, Everton, Wolverhampton, as well as other Premier League outfits, have reportedly been keeping tabs on the Ireland international centre-back. The outlet adds that there is an acceptance within Lyon that O’Brien will leave for pastures new this summer, despite the fact his Lyon contract is set to expire in 2027.

The outlet adds that Les Gones are wary of the hefty return on investment they would gain from selling O’Brien now by opting not to start him for this Wednesday’s preseason game against Bundesliga side St. Pauli.

GFFN | Bastien Cheval