Riley McGree reveals why he rejected Celtic move

It’s one of the risks for Celtic when competing for players in the transfer market. The lure of playing in the English Premier League and the perks that go with that can be seen by some as a more attractive option.

Right now, we have concerns that Cameron Carter-Vickers or Jota might be distracted by Premier League opportunities after their loan deals come to an end, rather than signing permanent deals for the Hoops. Back in January, one potential signing did turn down the chance to join Celtic and ended up signing for Championship side, Middlesbrough.

It looked as though Riley McGree’s Australian connections to Ange Postecoglou would be enough to secure a deal for Celtic during the January transfer window. He had impressed on loan at Birmingham City and rumours suggested that he was closing in on a Parkhead switch, before he opted for a move to Middlesbrough instead.

McGree has given the reason behind his decision recently. As reported by 67 Hail Hail, he said while speaking to Optus Sport:

"“With all due respect to Celtic and Ange, my ambition is to play in the Premier League.“I feel like coming here with Middlesbrough, the position they’re in and they were in potential automatic promotion or promotion going through the playoffs, and then being in the UK itself, I feel like it was the best opportunity to get to where I want to be in my end goal and what I want to achieve in my career.”"

McGree reveals why he rejected chance to join Celtic

Transfer moves are always a gamble for clubs and players alike. McGree has had an up and down time at Middlesbrough since joining, even though Chris Wilder’s side are still in the running for a play-off spot. On the other hand, Celtic may have come out on top after all.

Celtic signed Matt O’Riley from League One side MK Dons in January when the move for McGree failed to materialise and he has been a revelation since joining. He has played a key role in some huge matches and helped propel the club to the top of the Premiership table.

Securing a Premiership title will give O’Riley the opportunity to play in Champions League group stage next season.

McGree, on the other hand, would be hoping Middlesbrough can improve on their current 7th place in the Championship and drag themselves into a play off spot ahead of Sheffield United or Luton Town, with just one matchday to go.