Everton could face a difficult transfer decision in January, with a fringe defender potentially attracting a sizeable fee despite David Moyes’ shortage of defensive options.

According to Football Insider , former Tottenham , Everton and Aston Villa scout Bryan King believes Jake O’Brien could generate significant money if the Toffees decide to sell him.

The 25-year-old Cork-born defender stands at 6ft 6in and joined Everton from Lyon in 2024 for a reported £17million, signing a four-year contract. However, his involvement has fallen sharply this season.

O’Brien has managed just three Premier League appearances, all as a substitute, with his playing time reportedly amounting to only 28 minutes. That represents a significant change from last season, when he made 37 league appearances, frequently filling in at right-back.

King remains convinced that O’Brien has the qualities Everton need. Speaking to Football Insider, the former scout explained that he always viewed the defender as an Everton player and suggested his departure could bring the club considerable financial reward.

Crystal Palace, Leeds United and Sunderland have reportedly shown interest, although a reported £26 million valuation involving Palace remains unverified.

Moyes has largely relied on James Tarkowski and Jarrad Branthwaite at centre-back, leaving O’Brien further down the pecking order in his preferred position. Nevertheless, his height, aerial ability and comfort on the ball give Everton useful defensive cover.

Right-back presents a different problem. Everton lack a recognised natural option, while Rohl has filled in at the position. Selling O’Brien before recruiting another full-back could leave Moyes with even fewer choices during a demanding stretch of the season.

From a tactical formation and squad depth perspective, "Everton poderia vender este defensor de £ 25 milhões em janeiro: Moyes deveria lucrar ou mantê-lo?" carries substantial tournament implications for international seeding and domestic campaign momentum. Coaching staffs are heavily weighing high-pressing efficiency (PPDA), defensive transition pace, and fixture fatigue management.

Tactical analysts monitoring Transfer Wire metrics emphasize that squad adaptability and set-piece execution will likely dictate outcomes in high-leverage knockout environments. Real-time match telemetry and tracking data continue to inform managerial decision-making.

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