Leeds ready to complete new £10m+ transfer in next 24 hours – Phil Hay
Leeds United in internal talks over deal to sign Celtic ace Matt O’Riley in late transfer blitz – Fabrizio Romano
Leeds United are holding internal discussions regarding a move for Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley, according to Fabrizio Romano.
Speaking to GIVEMESPORT (30 August), Romano claims that the Whites’ move for the Danish youth international, 22, is a “possibility” as a new signing in Leeds’ “busy” final few days of the window.
The Daily Record claimed (29 August) that the SFPL champions were “adamant” on keeping the youngster this summer, while Sky Sports reported (29 August) that Southampton could rival Daniel Farke’s side for the former Fulham man.
To GIVEMESPORT, he said: “I think it could be a possibility, yes. They are discussing still internally about that and waiting to see if they can attack the situation in the next hours.
“But yes, I think this could be a possibility and I still expect Leeds to be busy in the finals days of the window. So, that remains one of the options for sure.”
Celtic do not seem eager to let O’Riley depart this summer, so Leeds faces an uphill battle in securing his signature.
He is clearly seen as a talent in Glasgow, with Celtic already having “bounced out a bid” for the attacking midfielder from Serie A side Bologna, according to the Daily Record (29 August).
This late in the window, and with other interested clubs, Leeds could struggle to get a deal over the line. However, the Elland Road faithful will be reassured to hear the club are remaining active in the market up until the final hours.
Leeds have remained active and have submitted bids for players across Europe. Sky Sports Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg claimed (30 August) that the Whites were in “advanced” talks with Werder Bremen for midfielder Ilia Gruev, while Daily Mail journalist Tom Collomosse reported (30 August) that Leeds are rivalling Sheffield United for Leicester City defender Luke Thomas.
So there’s plenty going on at Elland Road as the final hours of the window get closer. While it looks like a deal for O’Riley may be unlikely, if Romano is to be believed, they will continue their push.