Leeds United told move for Celtic gem Matt O’Riley possible in summer transfer window
Paul Robinson claims that if Leeds United are promoted to the Premier League, they will have an opportunity to recruit Matt O’Riley from Celtic.
After Atletico Madrid’s £10 million proposal for the goal-scoring midfielder was turned down, Carlton Palmer recently said that Celtic would probably consider selling the player for between £20 and £25 million.
After O’Riley scored his 13th goal of the season in Celtic’s 3-3 draw with Rangers on Sunday, April 7, the EFL expert indicated Leeds is among the teams keeping an eye on him
.Although Robinson thinks a deal for O’Riley and former fan favourite Kalvin Phillips is possible if promoted, a move is highly doubtful should Leeds stay in the Championship.
Robinson responded to MOT Leeds News regarding the reported interest in O’Riley, saying, “It depends if Leeds are in the Premier League or Championship.”It is not going to happen if they are still in the Championship.
“This year, O’Riley has excelled for Celtic. I’ve had a couple encounters with him. Leeds and other Premier League sides will surely be interested in signing him because he is an aggressive midfielder who can score goals.
“He has been reliable all season long and shown he can perform in the Champions League with Celtic. He would undoubtedly be a valuable addition to the team, and his track record speaks for itself.
Additionally, I’d be thrilled to see Kalvin Phillips return to Leeds—those murmurs have begun. The question is, can Leeds really afford his salary? Given what he’s going through at Manchester City, the truth is probably not known.
Then there is his own goal against his salary. If Leeds can bring both of O’Riley and Phillips over the finish line, it would be a very good deal—or two very good deals.
Robinson notes that it’s difficult to say with certainty what kind of player Leeds will be able to sign this summer.
It should go without saying that United will be able to draw in players of a far greater level if they are promoted to the Premier League as opposed to remaining in the second division.
The team most likely already has a few transfer shortlists prepared, ready to get to work after the season.
And if Leeds are promoted, O’Riley should be prioritised before Phillips when it comes to midfield objectives.
In 31 league games this season, the 23-year-old has 13 goals and an additional 11 assists for Celtic in an incredible season.
But Leeds has to finish the task of securing an immediate return to the top division before supporters can get thrilled about the idea of adding O’Riley to the team.
