Leeds United made a bid to sign Celtic star Matt O’Riley towards the end of the window, and his display for Celtic in Sunday’s 1-0 win over Rangers should convince the 49ers to retain their interest for January.
O’Riley has starred for Celtic since new Tottenham boss Ange Postecoglou took him north of the border from MK Dons in January 2022. Bought for £1.5m, he has had a hand in 28 goals in 77 Celtic outings.
The last of which came on Sunday. The first Old Firm derby of the season at Ibrox and the chance for Michael Beale and Rangers to get one up on Brendan Rodgers and Celtic – who has plenty of injuries.
But, while Rangers dominated large parts of the match, it was Celtic that won the match. A 1-0 away win, Kyogo Furuhashi scoring. It was O’Riley’s assist, his header – perfectly weighted for Kyogo to score.
However, it wasn’t just the attacking side of his game that caught the eye. Yes, he produced two key passes – as per WhoScored. But he won three headers and four tackles, and won two interceptions.
Sunday win should convince Leeds to retain interest in O’Riley
O’Riley is best as a no.10, but on Sunday he showed he can play just as well as an 8 – a bit deeper in midfield when the going gets tough. He can but his boot in and make a tackle – and win headers.
He has that midfield aggression needed in English football – but combined with Spanish technicality and vision. Sky say Leeds bid £10m for O’Riley. You can also see why Celtic chose to turn that offer down.
Still only 22, he is already far exceeding that value. But Sunday’s display should only convince The 49ers to strengthen their interest – and improve an offer when January arrives. He’d be a brilliant signing.
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