Atalanta and Celtic remain at odds over their valuation of the sough-after midfielder Matt O’Riley after the Scottish club turned down La Dea’s third bid for their standout star. According to Sky Sports, Atalanta’s improved £14.3 million offer fell on the Hoops’ deaf ears, perhaps landing a fatal blow on the Italian side’s hopes of landing the 23-year-old.
It’s been a while since Atalanta last pursued one player with such determination. But the Bergamo outfit cannot catch a break. Their second proposal for O’Riley worth €17m fell short of Celtic’s appetite earlier this week, forcing the Europa League winners to piece together another offer. Yet, they failed again.
O’Riley has been one of the hottest market topics this summer. In addition to Atalanta, La Liga heavyweights Atletico Madrid have reportedly renewed their interest in the versatile midfielder after seeing their winter approach come a cropper. However, Gian Piero Gasperini’s men are still in the lead despite suffering another setback.
The Danish star was in scintillating form for Celtic last season, netting 19 goals and providing 18 assists in 49 appearances for Brendan Rodgers’ title-winning side. Therefore, it’s barely surprising that the Hoops are keen to get a premium price for their most-prized asset, meaning Atalanta must increase their bid to get a deal over the line.
It remains to be seen whether they’re willing to do that. But Atalanta would likely go all-out to sign O’Riley if they lose Teun Koopmeiners to Juventus.
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