Celtic are preparing for their final battle for the Scottish Premiership title, still in control of their title and on course to enter the summer transfer window as champions. But that may mean nothing when a European giant comes calling for one of Brendan Rodgers’ best players.
Celtic transfer news
It wasn’t the easy title fight that some had imagined at the start of the season when Michael Beale caused problems for Rangers, but Celtic still appear to have the edge against their Old Firm rivals. A title win would be an ideal platform for the transfer window and could go a long way in convincing big-name targets like Charles Pickel and Caoimhin Kelleher to move this summer.
The key will also be keeping key players. The Bhoys had no choice but to watch as star Jota and manager Ange Postecoglou bailed out in a situation the Scots are desperate to avoid repeating. However, the reports do not look particularly promising in this regard.
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According to Corriere Dello Sport, Inter are keeping Matt O’Riley under surveillance ahead of the summer transfer window as they look to potentially flex their muscles to win the title for the first time since winning the last Serie A championship.
This is of course not the first time O’Riley has been linked with a move, with Celtic having already overcome a bid from Atletico Madrid to sign their midfielder in the January transfer window. After winning this transfer battle, it remains to be seen whether the team at Celtic Park will have similar luck this summer.
The “intelligent” O’Riley remains crucial to Celtic
Just like in January, Celtic must win the battle for O’Riley this summer if they are to maintain their dominance in the Scottish Premiership. The midfielder is undoubtedly key to defending their title again and Rodgers will be aware of that quality.
The former Leicester City manager was full of praise for O’Riley earlier this season, saying via Glasgow Live: “I like him very much. I think he’s a really intelligent footballer. He is a top professional. He prepares his body well and he prepares his life well. He wants to do well. He sets high standards every day to get better.”
|
Matt O’Riley 23/24 |
Stats (via Transfermarkt) |
|---|---|
|
Appearances |
44 |
|
Goals |
14 |
|
Supports |
16 |
It won’t be an easy task keeping O’Riley, especially when you look at the stats, but Celtic have done it once and should have the confidence to at least try to keep Europe’s top clubs at bay for a second time within of six months. Be it Inter, Atletico Madrid or another club, O’Riley certainly won’t be without suitors.