Borussia Dortmund have reportedly stepped up their search for midfield reinforcements by making contact over Brighton midfielder Matt O'Riley ahead of the summer transfer window.
The Danish international has emerged as one of several names under consideration as Dortmund look to reshape key areas of their squad, with creative midfield additions understood to be a major priority.
Fresh reports from Germany suggest new sporting director Ole Book has already begun exploring potential conditions for a deal, with O'Riley viewed as an attractive option inside the club's recruitment structure.
Borussia Dortmund see Matt O'Riley as a midfield solution
Dortmund are expected to strengthen in attacking and central midfield areas this summer, particularly with plans to add creativity and depth.
Manager Niko Kovac is reportedly intrigued by O'Riley's profile, while the club's scouting department are also said to support the potential move.
The midfielder appears to fit several of Dortmund's requirements: technical ability, positional versatility and experience across different leagues.
Having followed Brighton's recent squad development, O'Riley's situation has become increasingly interesting because of his reduced role since returning from his loan spell.
However, it remains too early to determine whether Brighton view him as available or whether current circumstances simply reflect short-term selection choices.
Matt O’Riley’s Brighton situation raises questions
O’Riley has struggled for regular involvement since returning in February.
| Matt O’Riley at Brighton | 2025/26 |
|---|---|
| Premier League appearances | 6 |
| Minutes since February return | 25 |
| Recent league matches unused | 3 |
| Estimated valuation | €20m |
Source: season reporting data – May 2026
Those numbers inevitably raise questions regarding his position within Brighton’s plans.
Reports suggest Dortmund believe a deal could be completed for between €15m and €20m, although Brighton may seek considerably more after investing approximately €29.5m in the midfielder.
That difference could become one of the biggest obstacles in negotiations.
Why Dortmund may face a valuation challenge
Brighton have developed a reputation for strong negotiating positions in the transfer market and have rarely allowed players to leave below perceived value.
Even if O'Riley's game time has been limited recently, the club may still believe the midfielder retains substantial long-term value.
For Dortmund, balancing spending priorities could also be important given reports of a tighter transfer budget this summer.
Key Points
- Borussia Dortmund have reportedly made contact over Matt O'Riley
- Niko Kovac is said to admire the Brighton midfielder
- Dortmund believe a deal could cost €15m–20m
- Brighton paid around €29.5m for O'Riley in 2024
- Limited game time has increased uncertainty over his future
What's next?
Dortmund are expected to continue assessing midfield targets as the transfer market approaches, with several positions requiring attention before next season.
For Brighton, the coming weeks may clarify whether O'Riley remains part of long-term plans or whether the club would consider offers for the Danish international.
If discussions progress, the biggest question may quickly become valuation rather than interest.
Would Matt O'Riley suit Borussia Dortmund's style, or should Brighton give him a bigger role next season?
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