As Matt O’Riley’s future at Celtic is still unclear, he is still being linked to teams throughout Europe this summer.
After a proposal of £15 million for the Denmark international’s services was rejected, Atalanta is rumored to be the leading contender for his services.
Despite having a stellar season last year, where he scored 19 goals and provided 18 assists to help Celtic win the domestic double, O’Riley’s future at Parkhead remains unknown until the transfer market closes in September.
The Bhoys are reportedly open to the idea of him joining Atalanta, the Europa League winners, despite rumors that he may depart the team this summer.
In light of this, Celtic cannot afford to take any chances with their engine room should he decide to leave the east end of Glasgow.
This summer, Celtic should try to get two midfield players. After the Bhoys and Benfica agreed on an initial £3.5 million deal for Paulo Bernardo’s signature, Bernardo may be returning to Celtic.
Even Nevertheless, as supporters wait for more information on his future, he continues to participate in their preseason training. In any case, Brendan Rodgers shouldn’t sign just one midfield player this summer if the Portugal Under-21 international does indeed sign with the Scottish Premiership winners.
To put things in perspective, O’Riley contributed 37 goals to the squad last season; in contrast, Bernardo scored seven goals despite playing fewer first-team minutes.
His potential is undeniable, and the Almada native is a gifted player who might end up holding down a spot in the starting lineup this season. Yet, if O’Riley were to leave Parkhead, Bernardo wouldn’t be a suitable substitute.
As a result of his ability to remain cool under pressure in both situations, some even contend that he performs better in deeper roles.
If O’Riley’s potential transfer is approved, the Bhoys should also look into profiling another advanced midfielder to start alongside Bernardo. O’Riley’s inventiveness would be much missed in the closing third.
In Celtic circles, rumors about transfers are beginning to heat up. Hopefully, the team can provide Rodgers with the kind of player he wants to buy.
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