Everton are set to reject any offers for Jake O’Brien in January, even though the defender has struggled to find favor under Sean Dyche.
This is according to the Irish Daily Star, which reported in its print edition (1 January, pg 48) that the 23-year-old is attracting interest from clubs in the Premier League, Bundesliga, and Serie A.
Despite this attention, Everton are unwilling to let O’Brien leave, as they aim to maintain sufficient depth in central defense.
O’Brien has managed just two substitute appearances in the league this season, totaling 34 minutes on the pitch, with Dyche favoring Jarrad Branthwaite, James Tarkowski, and Michael Keane ahead of him in the pecking order.
However, even as Dyche’s fourth-choice center-back since his £15 million arrival from Lyon last summer, the Toffees are reluctant to sanction a loan move for the remainder of the campaign.
Jake O’Brien Forced to Play the Long Game at Everton:
O’Brien’s situation at Goodison Park seems unlikely to change in the immediate future, meaning more time on the bench rather than on the pitch for the Republic of Ireland international. However, there may still be opportunities for him down the line.
The future of several Everton defenders remains uncertain, as does the position of Sean Dyche, whose contract is nearing its end. These factors could eventually open the door for O’Brien to secure more consistent first-team opportunities.
Michael Keane, who has been retained ahead of O’Brien despite a string of earlier errors, is also nearing the end of his current deal.
Meanwhile, transfer speculation continues to swirl around Branthwaite, despite his hefty £80 million price tag discouraging suitors for now.
As the 22-year-old approaches a critical stage in his contract, his situation could evolve further in the summer.
With Dan Friedkin’s recent takeover signaling the start of a new chapter at Everton, the January transfer window may not bring significant changes.
However, as future windows unfold, O’Brien could gradually work his way into a more prominent role in the squad.
