Southampton are reportedly preparing a significant £20 million bid for Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley. According to Record Sport, the offer includes potential add-ons that could push the total amount beyond Celtic’s previous record sales of approximately £25 million, achieved with Kieran Tierney’s transfer. These add-ons depend on Southampton’s Premier League survival and O’Riley’s future achievements. Southampton manager Russell Martin, who previously worked with O’Riley at MK Dons, is keen to reunite with the Danish international. Since his move to Celtic, O’Riley has thrived, becoming a key player and significantly contributing to their double-winning campaign last season.
Aware of financial fair play constraints, Southampton is unlikely to meet Celtic’s initial asking price directly. The club is focused on building a competitive squad for the English top flight without jeopardizing financial stability. O’Riley’s impressive performances for Celtic have attracted considerable attention. In January, Atletico Madrid showed interest with a loan-to-buy proposal, which Celtic declined. Additionally, Inter Milan and several other European clubs have been closely monitoring O’Riley, although no formal offers have met Celtic’s valuation yet.
Celtic, having secured O’Riley on a new contract in October, are in a strong negotiating position. They are unlikely to accept anything less than their valuation, particularly from a newly promoted club like Southampton, and are dismissive of performance-based add-ons. The message is clear: any club wanting O’Riley must meet Celtic’s demands upfront.
It remains uncertain if Southampton will meet Celtic’s valuation for O’Riley. With substantial interest from other European clubs, a bidding war could ensue, ensuring Celtic secures the best possible deal for their star midfielder if he is to leave.
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