MK Dons boss Graham Alexander has admitted he is hoping another club comes in for Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley this summer, so he can get a cut to spend on improving his own squad.
Like most transfer deals these days, MK inserted a clause in the O’Riley sale to pocket a percentage of the profit the Bhoys make on the midfielder if and when he does eventually move on. Celtic bought the player for just £1.5m, meaning the profit on any sale is likely to be very strong.
Alexander has been told by club chiefs that every penny of that sell-on percentage will be given to him as the club aim to be promoted back to English League One following last season’s relegation.
The MK Dons boss said [Daily Record]: “Fingers crossed someone comes in for Matt because our directors have told me that anything we get for him will go straight into the pot. If Matt goes for, say, £10m to £12m – our cut will be very welcome. Our business model is to bring players to the club, improve them and sell them on.”
Unfortunately for Alexander, the stars will have to align if O’Riley is to leave the Bhoys. Celtic are in a very strong position when it comes to negotiations and only a big offer will convince anyone it’s time for him to leave.
O’Riley has been an impressive performer since signing for the club. It’s not a stretch to suggest he’ll be eyeing a move to a bigger league one day, but with his contract not expiring until 2026, there’s no rush to sell.
Clubs have been credited with an interest in recent weeks. Valencia, Sevilla and Real Betis have all been mentioned as admirers but it remains to be seen if that is followed up with credible bids and what kind of valuation Celtic have in mind.
One thing is for sure, he’s not going to be sold on the cheap, even if it means MK Dons are left waiting on their payday.
In other news, Celtic are interested in signing Premier League free agent; echo of first Brendan Rodgers spell.
Receive a digest of our best Celtic content each week direct to your mailbox
