Sunday Matt O’Riley Bid Rumour

Southampton are reportedly preparing a substantial £20 million bid for Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley. The offer, which Record Sport claim includes potential add-ons, could surpass Celtic’s record sales of around £25 million, previously achieved with the transfers of Kieran Tierney.

The add-ons would hinge on Southampton’s ability to stay in the Premier League and O’Riley’s future successes. Saints manager Russell Martin, who has a History with O’Riley from their time at MK Dons, is eager to bring the Danish international back under his wing. Since moving to Celtic, O’Riley has flourished, becoming a pivotal player for the Hoops and playing a crucial role in their double-winning campaign last season.

Southampton, mindful of financial fair play constraints, are unlikely to offer what Celtic want straight off the bat. The St Mary’s club are aiming to assemble a squad capable of comPeting in the English top flight without compromising financial stability.

O’Riley’s performances have for Celtic have won him many admirers. In January, Atletico Madrid expressed interest with a loan-to-buy proposal, which Celtic rejected. Additionally, Inter Milan and several other European clubs have been monitoring the midfielder’s situation closely. However, these interests have not yet materialised into offers that meet Celtic’s valuation.

Celtic, having recently secured O’Riley on a new contract in October, are in a strong negotiating position. The club is unlikely to settle for anything less than their valuation, dismissing any reliance on performance-based add-ons, especially from a newly promoted side like Southampton. The stance is clear: if a club wants to secure O’Riley’s services, they must meet Celtic’s demands upfront.

It remains to be seen if Southampton will meet Celtic’s valuation for O’Riley. With substantial interest from other European clubs, the bidding war could intensify, ensuring Celtic get the best possible deal for their star midfielder, if he is to go.