Russell Martin aims to reunite with a former player at Southampton, who is also rumored to be a target for Leeds United in the upcoming summer transfer window.
After Southampton’s victory over Leeds in the play-off final at Wembley last month, which secured their immediate return to the Premier League and relegated Daniel Farke’s Leeds to another season in the Championship, speculation has been swirling about potential transfer targets.
Leeds, had they been promoted, were reportedly eyeing a move for Celtic’s Matt O’Riley, a player they had bid £10 million for last summer. O’Riley has excelled at Celtic, winning the club’s Player of the Season award, and played a crucial role in Brendan Rodgers’ side securing a league and cup double, further solidifying their dominance over Rangers. As a result, his market value has soared to a staggering £50 million.
Although two top-six Premier League clubs are said to be interested in O’Riley, any hopes Leeds had of pursuing him were dashed after the play-off final. However, Southampton has now emerged as a contender to sign the talented playmaker. Russell Martin, the Saints’ manager, has previously worked with O’Riley during his time at MK Dons and is reportedly keen on a reunion.
According to reports from Alan Nixon of The Sun, Martin would welcome O’Riley at Southampton, but the hefty price tag attached to the player is likely to deter any potential suitors, including the Saints. However, if Celtic lowers their asking price as the summer progresses and no club is willing to meet their initial valuation, Southampton might still have a chance, albeit slim.
For Leeds, missing out on O’Riley represents a lost opportunity, as they have been in need of a natural no. 10 despite the recent form of Georginio Rutter in that position. A higher bid for O’Riley last summer could have potentially secured his services, as it would have been a significant increase from what Celtic paid MK Dons to acquire him. However, with O’Riley’s current valuation and Southampton’s interest, Leeds’ chances of signing him seem increasingly unlikely.