Celtic transfer: £2m deal to be struck & fifth Matt O’Riley bid incoming

During preseason, Brendan Rodgers gave the adaptable midfielder—who can also play center-back—a rundown and determined he wouldn’t be in his plans. Lawal saw Stoke’s 1-0 victory against Coventry on Saturday and was not included in the matchday squad at Easter Road yesterday.
In the meantime, the Celts are ready for Atlanta’s FIFTH attempt to sign in-demand player Matt O’Riley. The Parkhead executives are holding out for a record-breaking amount for their star player that would surpass the £25 million they received from Kieran Tierney’s move to Arsenal five years ago. Last week, the Europa League winners had a £20 million offer for O’Riley rejected. Although Southampton, Brighton, and Chelsea are also considering a move for O’Riley, 23, he isn’t pressing for one.

Rodgers admitted the Denmark international will be allowed to speak to other clubs once Celtic’s valuation is met but confessed the classy playmaker will be impossible to replace.

Speaking yesterday, Rodgers said: “I don’t think we can replace like for like. He’s had years growing into the player he is now. If he did leave, to get someone like that straight away is very difficult.

“That’s why if he did go, it would be for big money and obviously, we’ll not be spending that straight on one player. Otherwise we wouldn’t lose him. But I’m not really overthinking it. He’s a talented, gifted player I love working with. He really enjoys his time here at Celtic and we’ll just see day by day.

“I’m not aware of any new bid, at least I wasn’t last night up until this morning. He’s training well and playing well. Until I’m told something different, we continue along that road.”

Regarding new players, the Scottish champions and Norwich City are still negotiating over a contract for Adam Idah. Football Scotland is aware that the Canaries are open to selling their desired striker for a total price of between £6 million and £8 million. Idah, 23, made his Norwich debut on the bench during the team’s 2-0 away loss to Oxford United on Saturday.

In an attempt to complete a transfer this week, Hoops manager Aaron Rodgers has been after the Scottish Cup-winning goal hero’s signing since the summer. Kyogo sustained a shoulder injury against Hibs.

“I have no update on it,” he stated. He continues to play for Norwich. We are aware of our needs. We’ve known what we require all along. Hopefully, in the upcoming weeks, we can bolster the team.”