Matt O’Riley’s Celtic future latest as Atalanta make progress on alternative target

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Celtic fans are waiting on tenterhooks to hear if Matt O’Riley will stay at the club for another year following intense speculation surrounding his future this summer.

Atalanta have been at the forefront of the pursuit for his signature. The Europa League winners have seen several bids turned down for O’Riley as they are yet to meet the Bhoys’ valuation.

Brighton & Hove Albion have also been mentioned as suitors for the Denmark international. However, with Brajan Gruda now in the door from Mainz, their admiration appears to have faded.

Southampton manager Russell Martin also confirmed that his side aren’t in the race for O’Riley, so there could be renewed optimism that Celtic will be able to keep their star man following his 19 goals and 18 assists last term.

Further developments have now come to light concerning his situation that may lend credence to that notion.

Atalanta make progress in Lazar Samardzic pursuit

According to Fabrizio Romano, Atalanta are close to an agreement on personal terms with Udinese attacking midfielder Lazar Samardzic.

He stated: “EXCL: Atalanta met with Lazar Samardzić’s agent today, agreement close on personal terms. Negotiations also between Atalanta and Udinese have started as Samardzić could be key target after €52m plus €7m add-ons bid from Juventus for Koopmeiners.”

Expectedly, any movement will be contingent on Teun Koopmeiners completing his move to Juventus. That has been in the works for a while, so expect Atalanta to try and replace the Netherlands international as soon as that goes through.

Crucially, this news could signal the end of their interest in O’Riley. It feels unlikely they would look to bring in two attacking midfielders so close to the deadline.

Celtic keeping Matt O’Riley would be a major boost

Words can’t typify what O’Riley brings to the table for Celtic. He is a central figure in Brendan Rodgers’ tactical framework and is involved in the bulk of the midfield’s creative work.

Last term, he also found his shooting boots, with his regular goals being a vital component of the Bhoys’ domestic double triumph.

Interest in his services has been vast this summer, and new suitors could come to the table before the window is closed. However, Celtic have held firm in the market; if other teams don’t like that, they can move on to alternative targets.

It would be a major boost if the Bhoys were able to retain O’Riley for another season. For now, supporters will need to wait for an answer on that front.