The implications on Matt O’Riley’s Celtic future as Brighton close in on attacking midfieder

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Matt O’Riley’s future has Celtic fans waiting on tenterhooks as the transfer window veers towards its final stretch.

The Denmark international is a majorly influential presence under Brendan Rodgers, having registered 19 goals and 18 assists last campaign.

Delving into the latest on his situation, Celtic have rejected four separate bids from Atalanta for O’Riley — the last is believed to have been in the region of £20 million.

Southampton, Brighton & Hove Albion and Juventus have also been sniffing around the playmaker, who has shown remarkable professionalism throughout the summer despite incessant speculation.

Whether he stays or chooses to depart, Celtic fans are receptive to his excellent mentality, which will see him enjoy a distinguished career no matter the path. Now, there has been a development elsewhere that could influence his future.

Brighton & Hove Albion close in on attacking midfielder

It isn’t often we report on transfer news from elsewhere, but when it directly impacts Celtic, 67 Hail Hail will be there to dot the i’s and cross the t’s.

Per Fabrizio Romano, Brighton are closing in on the signing of Mainz midfielder Brajan Gruda for a fee in the region of £25 million after it was verbally agreed.

He stated: “Brajan Gruda to Brighton, here we go! Deal in place for German midfielder to leave Mainz and join #BHAFC project. £25m fee verbally agreed and long term deal for Gruda, set to sign soon as Hürzeler wanted him. As revealed weeks ago, Gruda was dream target for Brighton.”

Effectively, this may signal the end of their interest in O’Riley. Gruda is predominantly an attacking midfielder, but can also operate on the right flank or even as a centre-forward.

It does feel unlikely that they would target two players in the same position. However, Facundo Buonanotte and Pascal Gross have left the Seagulls, which could pave the way for more additions.

Either way, Celtic could’ve landed a small boost in their efforts to keep O’Riley. Ultimately, supporters will need to wait and see whether that transpires.