Matt O’Riley’s time in the Premier League may be coming to an abrupt end just one year after leaving Celtic. Reports from Italy suggest Brighton are now prepared to listen to offers for the Denmark international, with Roma and Everton both monitoring his situation closely.
O’Riley made the switch to Brighton last summer in a deal that saw Celtic bank a reported club-record £26 million.
The move came late in the transfer window after interest from multiple clubs. At the time, it was seen as a big opportunity for the midfielder to test himself in England’s top flight after an outstanding season in Scotland.
However, his first campaign south of the border didn’t go as planned. Injuries disrupted his rhythm, limiting his appearances, while being played out of position in several matches further hampered his ability to make a consistent impact.
Speaking recently, O’Riley admitted he isn’t “completely happy” at Brighton, fuelling speculation that his stay at the Amex Stadium may be cut short.
According to Il Messaggero, Brighton are now in a position to negotiate O’Riley’s potential exit. The Italian outlet claims that the Seagulls no longer view the 24-year-old as a central figure in their plans for next season, and would be willing to entertain any reasonable offers that come in for the former Hoops star.
Roma have maintained a long-standing interest in O’Riley. The Serie A side tried to sign him last summer but were put off by Brighton’s hefty asking price. With Gian Piero Gasperini now in charge of Roma, having replaced Claudio Ranieri, the club’s interest has reignited. Gasperini, who admired O’Riley during his time managing Atalanta, is reportedly still keen on bringing the midfielder to Italy.
Everton have also been credited with an interest and are monitoring developments should Brighton formally place O’Riley on the market.
Celtic’s Matt O’Riley in action with Kilmarnock’s Liam Polworth Action Images via Reuters/Lee Smith
From a Celtic perspective, there’s still interest in the player’s future. As part of the deal that took him to Brighton last summer, Celtic are believed to have inserted a 10 percent sell-on clause.
Any fee Brighton receive from O’Riley’s sale would see the Scottish champions receive a tidy windfall.
With O’Riley’s future now firmly under the spotlight, the coming weeks could see serious movement. Both Roma and Everton remain in the mix, but much will depend on Brighton’s final asking price and O’Riley’s own preferences.
