Transfer news and rumours: O’Brien to Everton, Gilmour to Napoli

The 23-year-old arrived at Lyon from Crystal Palace in the summer of 2023, and the Republic of Ireland international made 32 appearances for the French club during an impressive 2023-24 campaign.

 

There has been a host of speculation surrounding the defender’s future in recent weeks, with a number of clubs believed to have been in touch with Lyon to express an interest.

According to Sky Sports News, Everton have agreed a deal worth up to £22m for O’Brien, who is set to undergo a medical with the Toffees ahead of signing a long-term contract.

O’Brien, who is 6ft 6in, started his professional career at Cork City and initially made the move to Palace on loan before the Eagles secured his signature on a permanent basis.

Elsewhere, Napoli are reportedly planning to make a fresh bid for Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Billy Gilmour.

The Italian outfit’s opening offer for the Italy international was allegedly rejected last week.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Napoli are now putting together a second bid, with the Serie A giants confident of securing his signature in the near future.

Gilmour is said to be pushing to complete a move to Napoli, with the midfielder keen to play in Serie A.

The 23-year-old started his professional career at Chelsea, making 22 appearances for the London club’s first team before making the move to Brighton in 2022.

The midfielder has featured on 58 occasions for his current side in all competitions, providing four assists, and he has another two years left to run on his contract at the Amex.