Leicester City are reportedly leading the race to sign Celtic’s Matt O’Riley, a midfielder who has attracted significant interest from multiple Premier League clubs.
O’Riley, linked with Leeds United, Everton, and Southampton, could soon make his way to Leicester, according to sources.
Last summer, Leeds United had a £10 million bid for O’Riley rejected, and their interest in the player resurfaced earlier this year. Besides Everton and Southampton, West Ham United and Italian club Atalanta have also shown interest in the 23-year-old midfielder.
TeamTalk reports that Leicester are currently in a favorable position to outbid other clubs for O’Riley. Although Atalanta have held discussions with the player, O’Riley seems inclined to prove himself in the Premier League.
Celtic values O’Riley at £25 million, reflecting his impressive performance since joining the club. The Denmark international has made 121 appearances, scoring 27 goals and providing 34 assists.
O’Riley began his career at Fulham but did not break into the first team, prompting a move to Milton Keynes Dons in 2021. His standout performances in League One caught Celtic’s attention, leading to his transfer. Initially an England youth international, O’Riley switched allegiance to Denmark in 2022, earning his first senior cap last season.
Given the strong Premier League interest, Leeds United’s chances of signing O’Riley seem slim. The club’s midfield is in flux, with Glen Kamara likely to join Rennes and Archie Gray already transferred to Tottenham Hotspur. However, Leeds have secured Joe Rothwell on loan from AFC Bournemouth to bolster their midfield options.
