The summer will be filled with speculation about the future of Celtic hero Matt O’Riley, making it crucial for the club to establish a firm asking price. After an impressive season with 37 direct goal contributions, O’Riley has attracted interest from various clubs, testing Celtic’s resolve as Scottish champions.
Atletico Madrid tried to acquire O’Riley in January but were swiftly turned down by Celtic, although reports suggest they still hold an interest. Other clubs have been put off by Celtic’s valuation exceeding £25m, including the Danish international’s former manager. This stance demonstrates Celtic’s ambition and ensures that any potential buyer must meet their high demands.
Former MK Dons manager Russell Martin, now with Southampton in the English Premier League, is eager to sign O’Riley after gaining promotion. However, he believes Celtic’s valuation may prevent the move from happening, as other wealthy clubs face similar challenges. This approach ensures that if O’Riley does leave, it will be for a substantial fee that Celtic are comfortable with.
By setting a high bar, Celtic are positioning themselves as a club that develops top talents who go on to play for elite teams. O’Riley’s personal aspirations will eventually factor into the decision, but as long as he remains committed to Celtic, the club can negotiate from a strong position. This strategy not only secures a significant financial return in the short-term but also solidifies Celtic’s reputation as a club that produces top-quality players for the long-term.
