The Matt O’Riley rumour mill sprung back into life today after overnight reports indicated English Premier League side Southampton are keen on a deal for the Celtic star this summer.
It’s been said that Celtic are bracing themselves for a bid in the region of £20m, with add-ons that would take the transfer into record-breaking territory for the Bhoys beyond £25m.
However, any deal is not clear cut according to outlets local to Southampton. There’s still a lot of work to do to get anything over the line.
The Daily Echo reported on Monday afternoon that O’Riley is looking for a larger salary than the Saints typically offer, meaning they may struggle to agree on personal terms with the Danish international.
O’Riley is setting the bar high on his value. As he should, knowing that this could well be the biggest move he makes in his career.
Matt O’Riley could play a long game on any Celtic exit
It’s clear that, for both club and player, big money will have to be tabled to convince O’Riley that it’s time to say goodbye to Celtic. Nobody is in any rush to push a deal through – there’s simply no need to.
The midfielder’s contract doesn’t expire until 2027 so the Bhoys are in a strong negotiating position.
O’Riley also has all summer to commit to any deal. It would be foolish to jump at the first club that show interest when bigger opportunities could come along towards the end of the transfer window.
The most likely scenario here is that, after enjoying a well-deserved holiday, O’Riley returns to Lennoxtown pre-season training and continues to work hard as a Celtic player. Interested clubs know what they need to do to change that.
