Everton ready to listen to Jake O’Brien offers as defender pushes for exit

Everton are prepared to listen to offers for Jake O’Brien during the final days of the transfer window, with the Republic of Ireland international keen to secure regular football in his natural centre-back position.

Football Place understands the potential departure is being driven primarily by the player rather than Everton, with clubs in Italy and Turkey showing interest.

Benfica are also aware of O’Brien’s availability, while Crystal Palace considered the defender earlier in the summer.

O’Brien’s desire to leave largely comes down to his position and playing time.

The 25-year-old is naturally a centre-back but has regularly been used as a makeshift right-back by David Moyes during his time at Goodison Park.

O’Brien previously accepted playing there as long as he was starting, but also made clear his long-term ambition was to return to playing centre-back every week.

That pathway currently looks difficult at Everton.

Jarrad Branthwaite and James Tarkowski provide established competition in central defence, while O’Brien was an unused substitute for Everton’s opening Premier League victory over Crystal Palace.

According to Ben Jacobs, Everton cannot guarantee him the central defensive role he wants.

O’Brien should have options if Everton sanction his departure.

There have been initial approaches from Turkey, while clubs in Italy are also showing interest.

Benfica have emerged as another potential destination and are understood to be aware that Everton are prepared to consider offers.

Crystal Palace also looked at O’Brien earlier in the transfer window, although there is currently no indication they have returned with a late proposal.

His experience should make him an attractive option. O’Brien has already accumulated significant Premier League experience with Everton and previously played in Ligue 1 with Lyon.

Everton are not actively forcing O’Brien out, but their position appears clear.

If the defender finds a suitable club before the deadline, the Toffees are unlikely to stand in his way.

For O’Brien, the priority is finding a team prepared to use him regularly at centre-back as he enters what should be the prime years of his career.

That makes the final days of the window particularly important.

O’Brien and his representatives will assess the available options as interested clubs consider making formal offers.

Everton do not appear desperate to sell, meaning the next significant development should come from one of his suitors. With the player pushing for more regular football in his preferred position, a late departure is now a realistic possibility.