David Moyes
David Moyes
Everton are keen on strengthening their squad this summer, and may now have the perfect market opportunity.
David Moyes is keen on adding attacking flair to his squad, and the permanent signing of Carlos Alcaraz has already helped in this regard.
Everton finished 13th after a strong second half of the season, and will hope to progress higher up the table at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.
Another midfielder could be targeted following the departure of Abdoulaye Doucoure, and they could now poach an unhappy player from a Premier League rival.
David Moyes
Moyes is intent on signing new players (Credit: Imago)
Matt O’Riley is unhappy at Brighton
Brighton midfielder Matt O’Riley has been linked with Everton less than a year after moving to the Premier League, and there is a reason behind these surprising exit links.
O’Riley joined from Celtic in a £25million deal, but has been used in a variety of different roles and positions, including as a false nine after a serious injury.
Speaking to BT in Denmark (4 June), O’Riley claimed that he is unhappy with how he has been used and wants to play as a central midfielder.
“I’m just giving my opinion. It makes it difficult to show off when you play a position you’re not completely happy with,” he stated.
“I can play better for the team if I play the number eight position, but I can play well in other positions.
“You can say it in a way that is not aggressive. If you are honest with another person, you don’t lose anything. The coach can always say he doesn’t agree.”
Matt O'Riley
O’Riley is unhappy with how he is being used at Brighton (credit: Imago)
O’Riley could be marquee addition for Everton
O’Riley’s comments indicate that he is not totally happy at Brighton, and this could see him push for a move if an offer comes in.
It would have to be an ambitious bid, but Everton could swoop in and snatch him from the Seagulls if they promise him consistent gametime in his preferred position.
O’Riley could be the perfect attacking partner next to Idrissa Gana Gueye, and would be a statement signing as Everton move into their new stadium.
The former Celtic midfielder has shown himself to be a key goal threat from deep positions, and he would add a lot of technical skill and attacking flair to central positions for Moyes if they can pull off the signing.
The Friedkins could make a real statement here.