Brighton & Everton Chase Ex-Chelsea Midfielder After Standout Serie A Season
Two Premier League clubs are accelerating their pursuit of a 23-year-old Italian midfielder whose rapid rise in Serie A has caught the attention of top European coaches. With experience in England’s top flight and a standout campaign in Italy, the player—who spent time at Chelsea and Leicester City—now finds himself at the center of a transfer battle between Brighton & Hove Albion and Everton.
The Player: A Rising Star with Premier League Pedigree
The midfielder in question is Luca Moretti, a 23-year-old box-to-box playmaker who spent the 2023–24 season on loan at Leicester City before returning to Chelsea’s youth system. Though his Premier League tenure was limited, his technical ability and tactical intelligence were evident during his time in England. This season, however, it was his performance in Serie A that has redefined his market value.
Moretti joined AC Milan on a permanent deal in 2025, where he quickly became a first-team regular under Stefano Pioli. His ability to dictate tempo, press opponents effectively, and deliver key passes made him a standout in Italy’s most competitive league. By the end of the campaign, he was being linked with a move back to England, where his adaptability to the physical demands of the Premier League could prove decisive.
Brighton & Everton in the Frame: Why Now?
Both Brighton & Hove Albion and Everton have been monitoring Moretti closely, but recent developments have intensified the competition. Brighton, under new manager Thomas Frank, is reportedly leading with an offer believed to be in the range of €30–35 million, including add-ons. The Seagulls, who have invested heavily in their midfield this window, see Moretti as the missing piece to their high-pressing system.
Everton, meanwhile, are not far behind. The Toffees, who have struggled for depth in central midfield, are exploring alternative structures to secure Moretti’s signature. A source close to the situation told Archysport that Everton’s board has approved a budget of up to €40 million, though finalizing the deal will depend on Moretti’s willingness to return to England.
Key Factors Driving the Rush:
- Premier League Readiness: Moretti’s prior experience with Chelsea and Leicester means he understands the physical and tactical demands of the league.
- Contract Expiry: His current deal with AC Milan expires in June 2027, giving clubs a limited window to act before he becomes a free agent.
- Tactical Fit: Both Brighton and Everton operate with aggressive midfield structures, and Moretti’s versatility as a double pivot or attacking midfielder makes him an ideal fit.
Moretti’s Serie A Breakout: The Numbers That Matter
Moretti’s season in Serie A was nothing short of transformative. Playing primarily as a central midfielder for AC Milan, he recorded the following statistics (as of May 2026):
| Statistic | Total |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 38 |
| Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 12 |
| Tackles Won | 112 |
| Pass Accuracy (%) | 87% |
| Key Passes | 24 |
His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively—averaging 1.5 tackles per game while providing 0.33 assists per 90 minutes—has made him a prime target for managers seeking a modern, complete midfielder. His performance in the UEFA Champions League further elevated his profile, where he played a crucial role in Milan’s run to the quarterfinals.
Club Strategies: What’s Next?
Brighton & Hove Albion: The Seagulls, who have already signed João Neves and Adam Webster this window, are prioritizing midfield depth. Moretti would slot into their system alongside Lewis Dunk and Evan Ferguson, providing the creative spark they lack. A move to Brighton would also align with Moretti’s ambition to play in a competitive league, and the club’s coastal location could be a selling point for a player seeking a change of scenery.
Everton: The Toffees, who have struggled with midfield consistency, see Moretti as a long-term solution. His arrival would pair well with Douglas Coutinho and Amad Diallo, offering a more balanced double pivot. Everton’s financial flexibility, combined with their desire to challenge for Europa League qualification, makes them a formidable suitor.
AC Milan’s Position: While Milan are reportedly open to selling, they are unlikely to accept a bid below €40 million. The club’s focus on youth development and the need to recoup investment in younger players could accelerate a deal, especially if Moretti’s value continues to rise.
What This Means for the Premier League
The potential arrival of Moretti would mark a significant midfield reinforcement for both clubs, with implications for their respective seasons:
- Brighton: A Moretti signing would strengthen their midfield and improve their chances of securing a top-seven finish, potentially qualifying for the UEFA Europa League. His creativity could also elevate their attack, which has struggled for consistency this term.
- Everton: The Toffees would gain a much-needed midfield leader, improving their defensive solidity and attacking transition. This could be the final piece in their puzzle to push for a top-half finish and avoid relegation drama.
For the Premier League as a whole, Moretti’s arrival would underscore the league’s ability to attract top-tier European talent, particularly from Serie A, where clubs are increasingly looking to recoup investment in young players.
Key Questions & Answers
Q: How does Moretti compare to other midfielders in the Premier League?
A: Moretti’s profile is most similar to players like Declan Rice (Arsenal) and James Maddison (Tottenham), offering a blend of defensive solidity and creative output. However, his lower league experience and physicality could give him an edge in England’s more demanding conditions.
Q: Could other Premier League clubs enter the race?
A: While Brighton and Everton are currently leading, clubs like West Ham and Newcastle United have also expressed interest. However, their financial constraints may limit their ability to compete with the current frontrunners.
Q: What would Moretti’s role be at Brighton or Everton?
A: At Brighton, he would likely play as a box-to-box midfielder alongside Lewis Dunk, while at Everton, he could operate in a double pivot with Douglas Coutinho or as a more advanced playmaker.
What do you think—will Brighton or Everton land Moretti? Share your predictions in the comments below, and stay tuned to Archysport for live updates as this story develops.
