Barry Ferguson has told Go Radio that he can understand why Leeds United were interested in raiding Celtic to sign Matt O’Riley – and thinks that if the midfielder sign a new deal, Celtic fans will be delighted.
O’Riley, 22, has starred for Celtic over the last 18 months since being brought north of the border by new Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou. He has since clocked up 28 goal involvements in 77 matches.
In the summer, Leeds made an offer of £10m to land the Denmark U21 star – which as per numerous reports, was rejected by Celtic. Our interest in O’Riley is likely to remain, given we did not sign a no.10.
But, reports from Sky Sports this week state that Celtic are planning to offer the playmaker a new deal at Parkehad – in order to keep the likes of Leeds and other interested clubs away. Ferguson commented.
“He was one of these finds that a lot of their fans didn’t know much about. He came from League One. He certainly impressed myself. I am sure he has certainly impressed many people in Scotland.
“I can see why Leeds came in. There was a fair bit of interest in him, but I am sure, if he signs a new long-term contract, then the Celtic fans will be absolutely delighted with that,” Ferguson said.
Ferguson can understand why Leeds were interested in O’Riley
Leeds still need a no.10. O’Riley would have been a perfect summer signing – and hopefully, there is still a chance that Leeds can get a deal done. It will be interesting to see whether O’Riley wants a new deal.
It might be that he prefers to move to England in the next window, or come the end of the season. So, signing a new deal might not actually be in his best interests. It all depends on what O’Riley wants to do.
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