Leeds table bid for £1.5m playmaker that Postecoglou defended this year, said he is ‘outstanding’

Leeds United have seen a bid rejected for Celtic technician Matt O’Riley but are expected to go back in for the playmaker before Friday’s deadline – a player Ange Postecoglou has described as “outstanding”.

Joining Celtic in January 2022 from MK Dons for a bargain £1.5m, O’Riley has since starred for the Scottish champions. Proving value for money, the London-born has had a hand in 27 goals in 76 games.

The six-time Denmark U21 ace is known for his box-to-box displays, able to break into the final third just at the right time. Set-piece ability, and magic to conjure something from nothing. He is crucial for Celtic.

The Scottish Sun report this week that Celtic have rejected an offer from Leeds for O’Riley – but that the Whites are expected to go back in for the midfielder. Postecoglou is a big fan, working with him at Celtic.

Of course, the Aussie gaffer is now at Tottenham – suffering his first defeat in a penalty shootout with Fulham in the Carabao Cup on Tuesday night. He is a big fan, defending him after doubts over his form.

“All the kids want plenty of presents for Christmas. Sometimes they need to be grateful for what they have got. The bottom line is Matt has been outstanding for us. I don’t worry about goals and assists.

“I get it that is what gives them a thrill. What’s more important for us is he’s a big contributor to us being where we are at the moment,” Postecoglou told The Scotsman in April earlier this year, while Celtic boss.

Leeds bid for Celtic’s O’Riley: Postecoglou said he is outstanding

Having missed out on Nadiem Amiri, bringing in O’Riley would be a stunning bit of business. It is likely that he would cost north of the £5m fee for Amiri – but the Celtic ace would be worth every penny.

He is a player of Premier League quality, without a doubt. Still only 22, he would rip up the second tier as our no.10 – or even alongside Ethan Ampadu, as more of a no.8. Great addition, if Leeds can get it done.