report: Southampton eyeing exciting Celtic transfer move..
Southampton are planning a transfer pursuit of Celtic’s Matt O’Riley this summer.
According to Give Me Sport, the Saints have set their sights on the Danish international following their promotion to the Premier League.
The Hampshire outfit will be looking to make improvements to Russell Martin’s squad following their play-off final victory over Leeds United.
The club earned an immediate return to the Premier League by sealing a 1-0 victory over Leeds United at Wembley Stadium last weekend.
Their attention will have already turned to the transfer market, with the window set to open next month.
Southampton are hoping to secure a deal to sign O’Riley from Celtic, although they will likely face competition for the playmaker.
O’Riley has attracted plenty of interest from teams in recent windows, but has remained at Parkhead to help the team clinch another Premiership title.
Atletico Madrid made an offer to sign the 23-year-old during the previous January window, which was rejected.
The Spanish giants could look to reignite their interest in the player this summer, which Southampton will need to be wary of.
Leeds United were also reportedly interested in the midfielder, but their loss to the Saints in the play-off final may have ended their hopes of a deal with Celtic.
It has been reported that Celtic have set a £30 million asking price for O’Riley in anticipation of summer interest.
Promotion to the Premier League is very lucrative to Martin’s team, and could be what they needed to be able to afford such a deal.
However, it remains to be seen just yet whether they are willing to match that £30 million fee.
Southampton are keen to add O’Riley to their ranks for life in the top flight, but the Scottish club have a strong negotiating position due to O’Riley’s contract running until the summer of 2027.