Russell Martin has confirmed Southampton have pulled out of the race to sign Celtic star Matt O’Riley.
The Saints boss forged a strong relationship with in-demand O’Riley during their time working together at MK Dons. And Martin confessed earlier this summer that he would love to work with the classy playmaker again. Serie A outfit Atalanta have already had FOUR bids knocked back by the Scottish champions for their star man, as they hold out for a record-breaking sale north of £25million.
Premier League new boys Southampton don’t currently have the funds to match Celtic’s asking price and Martin admitted today that O’Riley won’t be coming to St Mary’s this summer. Asked directly about O’Riley, Martin said: “We are not in the race right now.”
O’Riley – who is under contract at Parkhead until 2027 – isn’t pushing for a summer exit and is happy to wait and see what unfolds between now and transfer deadline on August 30. Hoops boss Brendan Rodgers has already warned potential suitors that the Scottish champions won’t sell their biggest asset on the cheap.
Chelsea and Brighton have also been keeping tabs on the Denmark international’s situation, while Europa League winners Atalanta are refusing to take no for an answer as they edge closer to meeting Celtic’s asking price. O’Riley hasn’t let the speculation impact his form after enjoying a promising start to the campaign.
Discussion about this post