Everton are plotting a raid on Brighton & Hove Albion for unsettled midfielder Matt O’Riley, but they will face competition for the Denmark international.
According to Sky Sports, Matt O’Riley could be a target for Everton in the summer, as David Moyes eyes a new midfielder in the close season. The Danish international is seemingly unsettled at Brighton & Hove Albion, which could lead to the Toffees attempting to sign him, though they will face competition for the midfielder.
Everton are set to begin a new era for the club by playing in a brand new stadium, as David Moyes wants to be equipped to handle the rigours of the Premier League. The Scottish manager is eager to strengthen his squad ahead of the summer transfer window, with a new midfielder firmly on his agenda.
Newcastle United’s Sean Longstaff remains a player of interest, while there are some other names on their list. Going by some of the links, it appears Moyes desires someone who can operate from a midfield position and has an attacking mindset to get the team going.
Free agent Angel Gomes is another name on Tottenham’s list, while there are some big links to Manchester City outcast Jack Grealish. Another name that is gaining momentum is that of Brighton midfielder Matt O’Riley, with the Danish international showing signs that he might be unsettled at the club.
Brighton & Hove Albion paid £25 million to sign him from Celtic last summer, but the midfielder missed many games at the start of the season with an injury. Those fitness issues have followed him during the campaign, but he has started many games in the final stretch of the season.
Will Brighton sell Matt O’Riley?
To begin with, Brighton & Hove Albion are not likely to let go of a player they paid a hefty fee for a year ago on the cheap. Hence, there will be the inclination to make a decent profit if they deem the 24-year-old midfielder as a dispensable asset, as Everton are not alone with some other teams, especially those abroad are chasing the Dane, which includes Serie A giants AS Roma.
Meanwhile, Everton’s pursuit and chances of landing the 24-year-old midfielder will depend on Brighton’s stance on him. For now, there is no indication that the unsettled star will be sold, although the Seagulls may not ignore an attractive offer should any of the suitors decide to make one. For now, the Dane is unlikely to be sold, though things could change during the summer window.