Brighton has secured the signing of midfielder Matt O’Riley from Scottish champions Celtic, in a deal reportedly exceeding £25 million. The 23-year-old Denmark international, originally from London, has committed to a five-year contract with the Seagulls, which will keep him at the club until June 2029.
O’Riley enjoyed a successful spell at Celtic, where he netted 27 goals in 125 appearances and helped the team clinch six trophies, including three Scottish Premiership titles.
The transfer fee sets a new record in Scottish football, surpassing the amount Al-Ittihad paid Celtic for Jota last summer, as well as Kieran Tierney’s £25 million move to Arsenal in 2019. The deal also represents a significant return on investment for Celtic, who acquired O’Riley from MK Dons for a reported £1.5 million in 2022.
This acquisition marks Brighton’s seventh addition during a busy summer transfer window. Notable signings include a club-record £40 million deal for French forward Georginio Rutter from Leeds, and Netherlands midfielder Mats Wieffer, who joined from Feyenoord for approximately £25.5 million.
Under the guidance of Fabian Hurzeler, Brighton has had a strong start to the Premier League season, currently sitting second in the table after victories over Everton and Manchester United in their opening two fixtures. The arrival of O’Riley adds further depth to a squad that appears poised to challenge the league’s top teams.
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