Russell Martin

Sunday Matt O’Riley Bid Rumour

01/07/2024 Raymond 0

Southampton are reportedly preparing a significant £20 million bid for Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley, including potential add-ons that could push the total amount beyond Celtic’s previous record sales of approximately £25 million. 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. O’Riley’s impressive performances for Celtic have attracted considerable attention, including from Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, and several other European clubs, 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 and are unlikely to accept anything less than their valuation. It remains uncertain if Southampton will meet Celtic’s demands, but a bidding war could ensure Celtic secures the best possible deal for their star midfielder.

Russell Martin transfer U-turn could be what Southampton actually need for one key reason

06/06/2024 Raymond 0

Southampton face a critical summer as they prepare their squad for the Premier League. Having secured promotion via the play-offs, Russell Martin’s team has had slightly less time to plan their summer activities compared to other Premier League clubs. As part of their promotion deal, Taylor Harwood-Bellis’ season-long loan from Manchester City became permanent. Southampton are also striving to sign fellow loanees Flynn Downes and Ryan Fraser.

Three senior players’ contracts are set to expire this summer. Stuart Armstrong, one of these players, has been confirmed to leave the club, while the futures of Che Adams and Alex McCarthy remain uncertain. Adams played a significant role in their promotion, scoring 15 Championship goals, and McCarthy stepped in for the injured Gavin Bazunu during the last eight games. Despite this, Southampton’s retained list announced Armstrong’s departure and noted ongoing discussions regarding potential new deals for McCarthy and Adams.

Southampton’s shock £108m summer transfer window as Roma and Borussia Dortmund stars join in bold prediction

05/06/2024 Raymond 0

Southampton’s celebrations had barely subsided when they began planning their return to the Premier League. Adam Armstrong, a former striker for Newcastle United and Blackburn Rovers, scored the decisive goal in the Championship play-off final against Leeds United. This victory ensured that Southampton’s stint in the second tier lasted just one season under the iconic Wembley arch. As the club prepares for the top flight, manager Russell Martin faces crucial decisions regarding players like Che Adams and Alex McCarthy, whose contracts are nearing their end at St Mary’s. Additionally, Armel Bella-Kotchap, Lyanco, and Duje Caleta-Car are set to return from loan spells, adding to the complexity of the squad overhaul needed for the Premier League. To address these challenges, new signings will be essential to enhance the squad’s quality and depth.