It looks like Tottenham Hotspur are lining up a summer move that could end up handing a boost to Celtic as well.
With the season now officially over following the Champions League final, all eyes will now turn towards the World Cup. Of course, Celtic fans will be more worried about how the club go about strengthening their squad after what was a disappointing campaign in terms of performance levels, despite the club winning a double.
Reinforcements are needed all across the pitch. And hopefully, more urgency and ambition will be shown this time around than in past seasons, which ended up costing Celtic a spot in the Champions League.
On the other hand, some eyes might be on the club's former players as well, who could be on the verge of a move.
Celtic do like to hold sell-on clauses. As a result, such moves could end up having a direct impact on their transfer budget for the summer.
One such player is Matt O'Riley, who left Celtic to join Brighton & Hove Albion a couple of years back in a €29 million move.
O'Riley's debut season with Brighton was marked by injuries and a lack of opportunities. He spent the previous campaign out on loan at Marseille. And now, a permanent move might be on the cards.
According to Football Insider, Tottenham Hotspur are lining up a summer move for O’Riley. Brighton & Hove Albion ready to part ways as well.
That being said, the report goes on to state that interest from Atletico Madrid and Borussia Dortmund is currently understood to be more “advanced".
So, despite O'Riley's lack of performances over the past two seasons, he remains highly rated amongst clubs. Just look at the three teams trying to sign him.
Obviously, Celtic would only receive a sell-on fee if the transfer goes through for more than the €29 million Brighton had to pay to sign O'Riley. That being said, considering the level of the clubs looking to sign the Danish international, it would not be a surprise if the figure turns out to be significant if a move does indeed happen.
O'Riley was elite during his time at Celtic, especially under Brendan Rodgers' management, the one season that the two worked together.
It has not really worked out for him since leaving. He has shown flashes of his quality time and again. But overall, he has not had the success that was expected to come.
It remains to be seen where he ends up playing next season. Whether it is Tottenham, Atletico Madrid, Borussia Dortmund, Brighton or somewhere else, we can only wish him the best.
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