‘My opinion’ – Matt O’Riley sent this telling message to Brighton shortly before Napoli bid was confirmed

Brighton have received a bid of around £25m for midfielder Matt O’Riley from Serie A champions Napoli.

The Denmark international joined the Seagulls for £25m from Celtic last summer but has struggled in his first season in the Premier League.

O’Riley suffered a serious ankle injury just minutes after his debut and has been hampered by form and fitness issues throughout the campaign.

Fabian Hurzeler has largely preferred Georgino Rutter in the No. 10 role, often leaving O’Riley out of position or playing out of position.

Matt O’Riley ‘not entirely happy’ at Brighton

The midfielder has complained about his role in the team and has also been linked with Everton, Atalanta and Roma.

“I’m not entirely happy and I’m just giving my opinion,” he told Danish media recently.

“It’s hard to show yourself when you’re playing in a position you’re not completely happy with.

“I can play better for the team as a No. 8, but I can play well in other positions too.

“You can say that in a way that’s not aggressive. If you’re honest with the other person, you don’t lose anything.”

“A coach can always say they don’t agree.”

Antonio Conte’s Serie A champions Napoli now appear to be leading the chase. Brighton sold former Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour to Napoli last summer for around £15m.

They recently signed Kevin De Bruyne on a free transfer following his departure from Manchester City, while former Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay has shone at the Diego Armando Maradona Stadium, helping them to the Serie A title last term.

Brighton are said to be open to offers for O’Riley, who is under contract with the Seagulls until June 2029.

The 24-year-old made 24 appearances for Albion last term, scoring two goals and providing three assists.

Verdict

It would be a shame for Brighton and O’Riley to part ways so soon. Albion fans have yet to see the attacking midfielder at his best, but a move could be the best solution for all parties.

Hurzeler clearly prefers Georginio Rutter in the No. 10 role, and O’Riley will be keen to avoid another season spent mostly on the bench.

Napoli’s strong opening bid would allow Brighton to make their money back on a player who arrived with much fanfare but whose performances have been sporadic.

Napoli have made a decisive move and Brighton can only wait and see how serious the interest from Everton, Atalanta and Roma is.

Atlanta tried to sign O’Riley last summer before he moved to Brighton. Former Atalanta manager Gian Piero Gasperini is now at Roma and remains an admirer of the Albion ace. According to Gazzetta, Roma opened talks with Brighton last week.

Multiple bids could push the price up further and, as we’ve seen, Brighton are reluctant to let go of players without making a few pounds first.