Italian media has stated that Atalanta intends to launch a follow-up approach for Matt O’Riley of Celtics in the upcoming weeks, which would put the Hoops under transfer pressure.
With 18 goals and 13 assists in the top division alone last season, Celtic striker O’Riley nearly single-handedly carried them to the Scottish Premiership title, defeating rivals Rangers in the process following a thrilling finish to the campaign. Several of the best teams in Europe have expressed interest in the 23-year-old as a result, and following his outstanding season in a green and white shirt, Serie A team Atalanta may now make another attempt to sign him.
According to the source, Atlanta is still targeting O’Riley and plans to “narrow the gap” with the Hornets in an effort to get their player. Teun Koopmeiners may be heading to Juventus, thus O’Riley has been identified as a major target for the Europa League champions, who are in need of a midfield player to join their ranks as they prepare for Champions League competition.
Furthermore, Corriere della Serra reports that Atalanta is “not giving up” on acquiring Celtic’s top player and would redouble their efforts following the rejection of their initial proposal earlier this month.
Despite other reports claiming they want £50 million for the star, their initial offer of €18 million (£15.1 million) with add-ons fell short of Celtic’s reported €30 million (£25.2 million) asking price. They will up the ante with a revised bid in the near future to avoid losing out to the Hoops on his signing.
According to the source, there is hope for a deal since the difference between the original proposal and Celtic’s value is not considered insurmountable. The Bergamo-based side should realistically aim for an agreement that falls between the two amounts.
