“They are trying” – Marseille pushing for permanent deal for Brighton’s Matt O’Riley

Brighton midfielder Matt O’Riley is at the centre of active discussions over a permanent move to Marseille, with multiple reports confirming that the Ligue 1 side are working to keep the Danish international beyond the end of his loan spell.

O’Riley joined Marseille in the summer after a mixed period at Brighton. While he made 20 appearances under former manager Fabian Hürzeler, contributing two goals and three assists, he never appeared fully settled on the south coast. A combination of injuries, system demands and positional changes prevented him from finding consistent rhythm in the Premier League.

But in France, things have changed dramatically. Under Roberto De Zerbi, O’Riley has rediscovered his confidence and his influence, becoming a key figure in midfield and helping Marseille shape their identity under the Italian coach. The club now view him as an essential part of their long-term project — and are actively pushing to make the deal permanent.

Transfer expert Gianluca Di Marzio, speaking to TipsBladet, revealed that De Zerbi has been the driving force behind the move from the very beginning.

“I know Roberto De Zerbi really well, and he loves Matt O’Riley. He really wanted him on a permanent deal,” Di Marzio explained, adding that attempts to secure his long-term signature are ongoing.

According to the journalist, Marseille are now working to finalise terms with Brighton.

“They are trying to get Matt O’Riley’s signature on a permanent deal so they have him next season too. After that it depends on De Zerbi and whether he stays or not. Because he really likes him. He wants to have him with him. But everyone at the club likes him and wants to keep him.”

The comments underline the strong internal alignment at Marseille: the coach wants him, the board supports the move, and O’Riley himself appears comfortable and settled.

O’Riley’s time at Brighton never fully ignited. Despite showing flashes of quality, he often appeared misaligned with the structural demands of Hürzeler’s system. Injuries did not help, and the emergence of other midfield profiles limited his minutes.

In France, however, De Zerbi has deployed him in a role that suits his strengths — dictating rhythm, progressing the ball and linking midfield to attack. His technical security and ability to operate under pressure have become central features of the Marseille midfield.

It is no surprise the club want him permanently. Nor would it be surprising if O’Riley welcomed the opportunity. At 25, he is entering the prime of his career, and stability under a coach who trusts him may be far more appealing than returning to a more uncertain role at Brighton.

From our perspective covering both Brighton and Marseille, every sign points toward a permanent deal being completed.

Marseille want him. De Zerbi sees him as a foundational midfielder. The board are aligned on securing the transfer. And O’Riley’s adaptation has been so seamless that returning to Brighton — where minutes and role are uncertain — feels unlikely to appeal.

Although Brighton will look to negotiate strongly, it is worth questioning whether they see him as part of their future. With new midfield profiles emerging at the club, O’Riley may no longer be central to long-term planning.

For the player, Marseille offers continuity, trust and a clearer pathway — all central factors for a footballer entering his peak years.

Talks are expected to continue into January, with Marseille pushing for an agreement before the end of the window. Brighton have not publicly commented, but sources suggest the club are open to discussions if a suitable fee is proposed.

O’Riley will continue as a key figure for De Zerbi as Marseille target a European finish.

👉 Brighton fans — should O’Riley be sold permanently, or given another chance in England?