Brighton & Hove Albion has slapped a £35 million valuation on midfielder Matt O’Riley as Tottenham Hotspur and other Premier League clubs circle. That figure represents a 40% markup on the £25 million fixed fee Brighton paid Celtic just two years ago, a transaction that already set the record for the highest transfer fee ever received by a Scottish club.
The O’Riley trade, unpacked
O’Riley moved from Celtic to Brighton in August 2024 for £25 million plus add-ons that could push the total to £30 million. He signed a contract through 2029, giving Brighton significant leverage in any negotiation.
A loan spell at Marseille during the 2025-26 season ended early in February 2026, with O’Riley returning to the south coast.
The interest is real. Napoli reportedly tabled a £25.6 million offer (roughly €30 million) back in June 2025. Roma has also been linked. Now Tottenham appears to be the most serious suitor as the July 2026 transfer window heats up.
