Celtic could reportedly be in line for a further transfer windfall if Matt O’Riley’s time at Brighton ends after just one season. The Danish international made the switch from the Hoops to the Premier League last year, but his debut campaign on the south coast has been far from straightforward.
Sky Sports journalist Lyall Thomas reports that Everton are among the clubs monitoring the midfielder, should Brighton make him available. Interest from Serie A has also been flagged, with several big European sides having tracked O’Riley for some time.
Soccer Football – Premier League – Brighton & Hove Albion v Manchester City – The American Express Community Stadium, Brighton, Britain – November 9, 2024 Brighton & Hove Albion’s Matt O’Riley celebrates scoring their second goal Action Images via Reuters/Paul Childs EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED AUDIO, VIDEO, DATA, FIXTURE LISTS, CLUB/LEAGUE LOGOS OR ‘LIVE’ SERVICES. ONLINE IN-MATCH USE LIMITED TO 120 IMAGES, NO VIDEO EMULATION. NO USE IN BETTING, GAMES OR SINGLE CLUB/LEAGUE/PLAYER PUBLICATIONS. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE FOR FURTHER DETAILS..
O’Riley’s first year in England was disrupted by injury early on, and he struggled to cement a regular place under Brighton boss Fabian Hurzeler. He was often played out of position, which limited his impact during the initial six months of the season.
However, a strong finish to the season saw him start six of the final eight matches. He provided a match-winning assist against Liverpool and scored a penalty against Tottenham, finishing with two goals and three assists in the Premier League.
Brighton reportedly still view O’Riley as a player who can contribute significantly next season, meaning any decision to sell could depend on incoming offers and squad plans. But with growing interest and Brighton’s recent player trading history, movement can’t be ruled out.
Matt O'Riley Brighton
Soccer Football – Carabao Cup – Second Round – Brighton & Hove Albion v Crawley Town – The American Express Community Stadium, Brighton, Britain – August 27, 2024 Brighton & Hove Albion’s Matt O’Riley during the warm up before the match Action Images via Reuters/John Sibley EDITORIAL USE ONLY. NO USE WITH UNAUTHORIZED AUDIO, VIDEO, DATA, FIXTURE LISTS, CLUB/LEAGUE LOGOS OR ‘LIVE’ SERVICES. ONLINE IN-MATCH USE LIMITED TO 120 IMAGES, NO VIDEO EMULATION. NO USE IN BETTING, GAMES OR SINGLE CLUB/LEAGUE/PLAYER PUBLICATIONS. PLEASE CONTACT YOUR ACCOUNT REPRESENTATIVE FOR FURTHER DETAILS..
Celtic will be watching developments closely. (TCW) report that the Hoops inserted a 10% sell-on clause when O’Riley departed for a reported £25 million last summer. Should Brighton recoup that fee or higher, Celtic would bank at least £2.5 million—a welcome boost ahead of what could be another active transfer window at Lennoxtown.
O’Riley had been a standout at Celtic across three seasons, earning two caps for Denmark and playing a crucial role in domestic success. His departure was a blow, but it now has the potential to deliver another financial lift for the Scottish champions.
Tees for Tims - Jota Celtic