Back in January, Celtic turned down an approach from Atletico Madrid, but rumours about O’Riley’s future continue to swirl as the new season approaches. Now, reports from Italy suggest Juventus are eyeing the player, with O’Riley making the back page of TuttoSport this morning. The report claims Juventus have made contact and asked for a price.
Celtic have made their stance clear: O’Riley won’t leave on the cheap. Fans are expecting a fee that matches or even surpasses the club’s record transfer, set at £25 million for Kieran Tierney. With three weeks to go until the new season, Celtic are in a strong financial position and don’t need to sell players to balance the books. This is bolstered by the impending windfall from the new Champions League format.
O’Riley’s own intentions are also a factor. So far, he hasn’t indicated any desire to leave Celtic. He’s ambitious, and if the right offer comes along, while fans would be sad to see him go, most would wish him well. However, if no club meets Celtic’s valuation, the club and its supporters will be more than happy to see O’Riley stay at Celtic Park.
The next few weeks will be crucial in determining O’Riley’s future, and Celtic fans will be watching closely as the transfer window drama unfolds.
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