AliousCrystal Palace is set to benefit financially from Jake O’Brien’s potential transfer to Everton, thanks to a sell-on clause in his previous move to Lyon.
O’Brien, an Irish international, spent two years in Crystal Palace’s academy after joining from Cork City in 2019.
He had loan spells at Swindon Town and RWD Molenbeek before moving to Lyon for £1 million in August 2023.
Everton is now close to signing O’Brien for €20 million (£16.9 million).
Crystal Palace’s Director of Football, Dougie Freedman, negotiated a 20% sell-on clause when O’Brien was sold to Lyon, which could now bring about £3.2 million to the club.
O’Brien is expected to have a medical with Everton this weekend and sign a four-year contract.
His impressive performance at Lyon, including scoring four goals in 27 Ligue 1 appearances, attracted interest from other clubs like West Ham and Borussia Dortmund.
This deal represents excellent business for Crystal Palace.
While some fans might argue that O’Brien could have been kept at the club, the financial aspects are undeniably positive.
Crystal Palace likely spent a minimal amount to sign O’Brien from Cork City initially, with Transfermarkt estimating it at £21,141.
If accurate, this means Crystal Palace has turned a small investment into £4.2 million, considering the initial £1 million from Lyon and the current £3.2 million windfall.
Such deals help Premier League clubs maintain financial stability under the Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR).
Freedman is credited for initially discovering O’Brien, and this type of business model could continue to benefit Crystal Palace if young talents impress elsewhere after leaving the club.
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