West Ham are believed to be battling Atletico Madrid for the signing of Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley this summer, with a bid potentially being weighed up.
The Hoops won yet another Scottish Premiership title this season, seeing off strong competition from rivals Rangers to clinch glory earlier this month.
Numerous players were key to Celtic’s success, but arguably none had a greater influence than O’Riley, who proved to be the creative hub of the team.
The Dane scored 18 goals and registered 13 assists in the league – impressive numbers for a striker, let alone a midfielder – and he could feel that now is the right time to enjoy a new challenge at a higher level.
According to a report from Football Insider, West Ham want to sign O’Riley from Celtic in the summer transfer window, providing competition for Atletico and others in the process:
“West Ham are ready to go head-to-head with European giants Atletico Madrid for Celtic playmaker Matt O’Riley, sources have told Football Insider. The Hoops star, 23, is attracting interest in England and across the continent after his stellar performances in the Scottish Premiership this term.
“Celtic rejected a bid from Atleti for the Denmark international in January and they are expected to be among the interested parties in the summer window. It is believed Premier League trio West Ham, Brighton and Everton are all keen on O’Riley – who left MK Dons in 2022 for just £1.5million.”
There may be some trepidation about West Ham bringing in O’Riley, given the step up in class in the Premier League compared to the Scottish Premiership, but he does look like a player full of attacking quality.
The 23-year-old is expected to be named in Denmark’s squad for Euro 2024, having won two caps for his country since switching his allegiance from England, who he made four appearances for at Under-18 and Under-16 level combined.
O’Riley is a silky footballer capable of scoring and creating on a regular basis, and while not necessarily on Lucas Paqueta’s level yet, Julen Lopetegui could view him as a similar option, should the Brazilian join Manchester City before the start of next season.
