David Moyes set to keep his promise to Jake O’Brien at Everton as signings eyed

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Everton are hopefully set for a summer transfer window full of success, but time will tell whether that comes to fruition.

The Friedkin Group have pressure to perform with transfers this summer in a real eye-opener for Everton fans.

It’s been clear since January that Everton have a significant summer budget, but thankfully, they have someone like David Moyes to spend it wisely.

Chris Rigg is on Moyes’ radar in what would be a real coup for the club and indicate real change is happening.

But another area of the squad is being monitored closely, and Evertonians can expect signings.

Everton are set to have wholesale changes in defence

One thing that can be taken from Sean Dyche’s legacy is his solid defensive record with Everton, but Moyes still doesn’t think that’s enough.

With Jarrad Branthwaite valued at £80m, the defender’s future is still undecided, and he could move on.

This will lead the Scotsman to act quickly, but may do so in more ways than one in defence.

With the likes of Seamus Coleman, Ashley Young and Michael Keane all likely to depart the club this summer, journalist, Patrick Boyland via The Athletic has revealed all about Everton’s defensive plans.

“The club will look at both full-back positions this summer, but I’m not sure it impacts (Jake) O’Brien that much,” Boyland said.

“Moyes has said O’Brien’s medium and long-term future is in the centre of defence, the position he has played in throughout his career.

“Branthwaite and James Tarkowski are in favour, but the former is likely to attract considerable interest this summer, and the latter is moving into the final year of his deal soon.

“With Keane out of contract, I’d expect some movement in central defence this summer, too.”

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Moyes’ promise to O’Brien will now come true at Everton

In what started off as a difficult season for Jake O’Brien, the Irish defender has now come on leaps and pounds under Moyes’ reign.

Although in the unfamiliar position of right-back, O’Brien still provides a threat from set-pieces, but his stint out of position might be coming to an end.

Judging by the report, the 23-year-old is set to regain his status as a centre-back with the Toffees boss keeping his promise, as Moyes said O’Brien will be a centre-back.

There’s clear initiative in the summer from the owners, and if Everton can line-up with a promising defence, who knows what comes next in the Premier League.