Could O’Riley be an improvement over departing Doucoure

BLUES LOOKING TO STRENGTHEN THIS SUMMER

- By CHRIS BEESLEY

EVERTON have been linked with a move for Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Matt O'Riley, but what would he potentially bring to the Blues?

It is reported that Everton would be keen on O'Riley this summer if Brighton sanction a move but would expect to face competition from a number of European clubs.

The report adds that there is uncertainty around the Denmark international after he was an irregular part of Fabian Hurzeler's team in his first season, in part due to an injury at the start of the campaign, while also playing out of position.

His situation has alerted other clubs, but it is not clear whether the Seagulls would be willing to sell at this stage, as they see him as a player that could contribute significantly next season.

O'Riley scored twice and assisted three times in the Premier League - starting six of the last eight games - providing a match-winning assist against champions Liverpool and a penalty against Tottenham Hotspur.

Born in west London on November 21, 2000, O'Riley joined Fulham's academy at the age of eight but after coming up through the ranks with the Cottagers, he quit the club in the summer of 2020 when his contract expired - rejecting a new three-year deal - after making five first-team appearances.