Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as potential suitors for Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Matt O’Riley, with manager Roberto De Zerbi reportedly a keen admirer of the player, according to sources at TEAMtalk. The 25-year-old Danish international is also attracting interest from Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund as the summer transfer window approaches.
O’Riley joined Brighton from Celtic in August 2024 for a fee of £25 million, a then-record transfer fee received by a Scottish club. However, his time at the Amex Stadium has been disrupted by injuries and limited first-team opportunities under Fabian Hurzeler, leading to a season-long loan to Marseille in September 2025.
During his time in Ligue 1, O’Riley made 25 appearances and scored one goal, also featuring in the Champions League. Brighton recalled him in February 2026 to bolster their squad, but he has continued to struggle for consistent playing time in the Premier League. Brighton are now understood to be open to a permanent sale, hoping to recoup their investment and reshape their midfield.
Brighton currently value O’Riley at around £35 million, though a sell-on clause in his contract would see Celtic benefit financially from any deal. Atletico Madrid, who previously showed interest while O’Riley was at Celtic, are again considering a move, with manager Diego Simeone reportedly drawn to his work rate and versatility. Borussia Dortmund are also monitoring the situation, seeking midfield reinforcements and viewing O’Riley as a suitable fit for their high-pressing system.
While Marseille retain an interest, they may find it difficult to compete financially with the other interested clubs. Sources indicate that O’Riley’s name has been discussed in recruitment meetings at Tottenham, and De Zerbi’s strong approval could see Spurs make a serious move should they avoid relegation from the Premier League. A move to any of these clubs would offer O’Riley the opportunity for regular football at a high level, while Brighton will seek to avoid a cut-price sale for a player contracted until 2029.
