Carlton Palmer feels Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley will be an excellent signing for Leeds United, despite suggestions of them making a move for him.
He also claims Celtic turned down a £10 million deal for the Denmark international.
According to reports, removing him from Celtic Park will cost £25 million.
“Leeds United are one of several clubs interested in signing Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley,” Palmer told Football League World.
“Leeds were connected with a summer transfer for O’Riley, making numerous proposals for the player, believed to be worth approximately £10 million, which Celtic rejected.
“He’s gaining attention both at home and abroad.
“Atletico Madrid reportedly rejected a £10 million approach in January, and Brentford and Brighton are interested in him.
“Matt has had a terrific time at Celtic; the 23-year-old has 26 goals this season, has participated in the Champions League, and has made his debut for his country.
“We’ll have to wait and see; this might be a terrific signing for Leeds United if they are promoted to the Premier League, but I believe it’ll be quite expensive.
“So, to get him out of the football club, a fee of around £25 million has been proposed, but at the age of 23, he’d be an excellent signing for Leeds if they were promoted to the Premier League.
“He would be a fantastic signing if they could get him, but I’m sure Celtic will be keen to hang on to the player.”
Leeds United may need O’Riley options.
While O’Riley may be a great player, Leeds must examine other options given the uncertainty surrounding his probable transfer.
While his signing could improve their midfield creativity, relying completely on him may not be wise.
Furthermore, the 23-year-old may be reluctant to join a freshly promoted team whose major goal is to escape relegation.
Leeds could look into additional midfield possibilities to help bolster their Premier League roster.
While O’Riley’s performances at Celtic have been impressive, his preference and preparedness for the challenges of playing for a newly promoted team may be questioned.
The Whites must evaluate potential transfer targets who are not only capable but also eager to contribute effectively to their goals in the first flight.
This method ensures that the club has contingency plans in place, and it is unclear what ideas Daniel Farke has in mind.
