Former Celtic defender Mark Wilson reckons Matt O’Riley will earn Celtic a lot of money next year.
O’Riley signed a contract extension in September, extending his stay at Celtic until 2027. The Denmark international was recently linked with potential moves to Liverpool and Borussia Dortmund, but with such a long-term contract in place, Celtic has no obligation to sell O’Riley anytime soon.
O’Riley’s form at Celtic this season has earned him recognition on the international stage, leading to his debut for Denmark on Monday against Northern Ireland, where he played for 61 minutes.
The Celtic midfielder has undoubtedly been the Hoops’ star player this season, contributing to goals on a more consistent basis than in previous seasons. O’Riley credits this recent improvement down to Celtic first-team coach Gavin Strachan and their work together in training.
Wilson said: [Clyde One Superscoreboard], “I think there is a good chance that he will go. I say that as Celtic knocked back a substantial bid this summer – £10m.
“Now he’s a full international and on the back of the six months he’s had from summer to now, you see him getting better.
“I just think someone will recognise that, I think people will already have recognised that. It will take a big bid and I think it will be a lot of money. But my fear is Matt O’Riley won’t be at Celtic at the start of next season.”
Wilson’s comments highlight the recognition O’Riley is receiving, not only from his national team but also from European giants. The Celtic midfielder has managed to elevate his game to a whole new level in his first season working under Brendan Rodgers.
Despite the attention surrounding his future away from Celtic, O’Riley has not shown any signs of a potential transfer affecting his performances. In providing two assists against Aberdeen and another against St Mirren County in his last two Scottish Premiership appearances.
O’Riley remains focused on matters on the pitch until the time comes to negotiate with other clubs. However, it’s clear that he is in no hurry to leave Celtic, as indicated by his comments about Gavin Strachan. These comments serve as a great testament to the remarkable work being done in training to enhance the development of players who have joined the Hoops.
