Liverpool must fork out at least £26m to land Celtic star Matt O’Riley
According to TEAMTalk, Liverpool have set their sights on Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley, but acquiring his services will require a significant financial commitment. Celtic have placed a minimum price of £26 million on the 23-year-old, highlighting their reputation for demanding substantial fees for their players. Recently, the club made significant sales, selling Kieran Tierney to Arsenal and Jota to Al-Ittihad, both for a hefty sum of £25 million.
There are multiple Premier League clubs vying for the talented Danish international, and Atalanta are also making a strong push to secure his signature. Following the rejection of their initial bids of approximately £16 million, the Italian team is likely to present a more competitive offer. It is imperative for Liverpool to make swift and resolute moves if they are to secure O’Riley’s transfer to Anfield in the upcoming summer.
O’Riley’s exceptional performance in 2023/24, with an impressive tally of 19 goals and 18 assists, has caught the attention of clubs seeking to strengthen their midfield options. His creativity and goal-scoring ability could greatly benefit Liverpool. Nevertheless, the battle for his signature is intense, with Atalanta currently at the forefront of the race to secure the services of the talented 22-year-old midfielder.
The midfielder’s performances also saw him catch the attention of a UEFA observer who acclaimed the player’s ability to not just act as a playmaker but also his defensive prowess in the middle of the park. Given his age, there is still much for O’Riley to learn and it suits Liverpool fine.
Celtic are confident that they can reach their asking price through additional incentives and bonuses, demanding a total package of approximately £26 million. Negotiations with the Italian club are still ongoing, despite the amount discussed being considerably higher than what Atalanta initially proposed. It appears that O’Riley is keen on a transfer to Italy and has expressed his approval, pending a club agreement.
Liverpool should seriously contemplate meeting Celtic’s valuation for O’Riley. This midfielder’s impressive stats and versatility make him a valuable addition to the squad. In addition, his knack for scoring goals and creating assists would greatly enhance Liverpool’s midfield, which has encountered difficulties in recent years.
Celtic have made sure to secure a replacement for Paulo Bernardo from Benfica, demonstrating their preparedness for O’Riley’s departure. Liverpool has a golden chance to seize the moment and acquire a highly skilled player who will undoubtedly elevate the club’s competitive prowess. In addition, the Brendan Rodgers connection could also play a role, despite the bitter parting of the ways.
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The 23-year-old ticks another important box for Liverpool- being homegrown. Born in Hounslow in London, he spent his youth development years at Fulham and even represented the Three Lions at the youth level. This augurs well for the Reds, freeing up another spot for them to bring in a foreigner.
