Matt O’Riley snubs Prem move as Brendan Rodgers lands new striker – Celtic’s dream window

Celtic have splashed out on several big transfers this summer but their most important moves could be yet to come. Clubs in the Premier League and abroad are circling around Matt O’Riley, while manager Brendan Rodgers is thought to hold ambitions of further strengthening his squad before the window slams shut.

 

Here, Express Sport takes you through the two things that would make up a dream scenario for the Hoops…

O’Riley’s stunning 2023/24 season has made him Celtic’s most valuable asset. Atalanta and Southampton have both shown interest in the 23-year-old but Brighton are reportedly leading the race for his signature.

And Celtic could be left powerless if a £25million offer materialises – unless O’Riley turns his nose up at the prospect of a Premier League switch.

The Hounslow-born Denmark international is in the form of his life and thriving under Rodgers, so it is not beyond the realms of possibility that another season north of the border would take his fancy.

Keeping hold of O’Riley, who scored 18 league goals last campaign, would be a dream scenario for Celtic. But swaying him against a big-money Premier League move is a tough ask. Augsburg’s Arne Engels and Swiss prospect Alvyn Sanches have been sounded out as possible replacements if the Seagulls are successful with their swoop.

Celtic already have options aplenty through the middle. Kyogo Furuhashi has been a consistent scorer over the past three seasons, Adam Idah signed from Norwich City this summer after impressing on loan last term, and Daizen Maeda scored twice while deputising up front against Hibernian on Sunday.