Leeds United: Pundit reacts to £25m Celtic ace Matt O’Riley transfer claim
Carlton Palmer believes that Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley will be a terrific signing for Leeds United amid reports of them plotting a move for him.
He also states that a £10million offer was made for the Denmark international which was not to the liking of Celtic.
It has been reported that it will take £25million to prise him away from Celtic Park.
“Leeds United are among several clubs chasing the signature of Celtic’s midfield player Matt O’Riley,” Palmer told Football League World.
“Leeds were linked with a summer move for O’Riley, making several bids for the player, believed to be around £10 million, that Celtic turned down.
“He’s attracting attention from home and abroad.
“Atletico Madrid apparently had a bid turned down in January of £10million, and the likes of Brentford and Brighton are looking at him.
“Matt has had a fantastic time at Celtic, the 23-year-old is having a fantastic season with 26 goal contributions, he’s played in the Champions League and he’s also made his debut for his country.
“We’ll have to wait and see, this could be a fantastic signing for Leeds United if they get promoted to the Premier League, but I think it’s going to cost a lot of money.
“So, to get him out of the football club, a price tag has been mooted of about £25million, but at the age of 23 he’d be a very, very good signing for Leeds if they got promoted to the Premier League.
“He would be a fantastic signing if they could get him, but I’m sure Celtic will be keen to hang on to the player.”
Leeds United may need O’Riley alternatives
While O’Riley may indeed be a talented player, Leeds must consider alternatives given the uncertainties surrounding his potential transfer.
While his addition could provide a boost to their midfield creativity, relying solely on him may not be prudent.
Additionally, the 23-year-old might not be inclined to join a newly promoted side whose primary objective initially would be to avoid relegation.
Leeds should explore other midfield options to strengthen their squad for the Premier League.
While O’Riley’s performances at Celtic have been commendable, his preference and readiness for the challenges of playing in a newly promoted team might be questionable.
The Whites must assess various transfer targets who are not only capable but also willing to contribute effectively to their objectives in the top flight.
This approach ensures that the club have contingency plans in place and it remains to be seen what ideas Daniel Farke has in mind.
In other Leeds United news, the club have now made moves in order to secure their first permanent transfer of the summer.
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