Brighton’s Matt O’Riley valuation becomes clear with further Celtic talks coming, situation heating up

There have been many teams linked with a move for Matt O’Riley over the last 12 months but we may finally be seeing serious contenders emerge for the Celtic midfielder’s signature.

Atletico Madrid and Atalanta have been the two sides showing the most interest in O’Riley, said to have had bids knocked back by the Scottish champions back in January and this summer.

Despite the heavy speculation, their valuations haven’t come close to what Celtic have in mind for the star midfielder. That’s been publicly noted by manager Brendan Rodgers.

However, that could be about to change with teams from the English Premier League now getting involved in the O’Riley running.

It was reported earlier this week that Brighton & Hove Albion are the latest to enter talks with the Bhoys for O’Riley, joining Southampton as suitors from down south.

Brighton could progress Matt O’Riley situation

While Chris Sutton may not rate Brighton as a potential destination for O’Riley, the truth is that they seem a more credible option than others – simply because they are willing to pay the cash Celtic want.

Journalist Alan Nixon reports that the Seagulls are ready to go beyond the £25m mark for his signature with further talks with Celtic coming down the line.

That puts a potential deal into the record-breaking realm that the Scottish champions are said to covet when it comes to the Danish international.

O’Riley will keep the head until the exit button is pushed

Thankfully, it’s become clear throughout all the noise around O’Riley that he is happy to trust the club to decide when his exit will come. Celtic have him on a contract until 2027 and he isn’t agitating for a move.

That means Celtic can set their value and wait for clubs to clear that bar, without worrying that it will impact O’Riley’s commitment to the club or to team performances. It’s all playing out optimally for the Bhoys.

Brighton are at least taking that seriously and it’ll be interesting to see if they are now the team that heats up this situation into a viable deal for all parties.