The Celtic rumour mill has come to life today but unfortunately, it is not because of any potential incoming. Instead, Matt O'Riley's future at Parkhead has been thrown into doubt. The Danish international has been the club's best player this season till now and that has caught the attention of one of the best teams in Europe.
As reported by Sky Sports, Celtic have received a bid from Atletico Madrid for O'Riley. The offer is an initial loan plus an obligation to sign him.
Naturally, Celtic fans have been left worried about the situation. They would not want to see arguably their best player leave in the middle of the season while in the middle of a tight title race with the Rangers.
There appears to be some good news in that regard. As reported by CeltsAreHere, a source close to Celtic has said that O’Riley is “going nowhere”.
Celtic make O'Riley decision amid Atletico Madrid's bid
To be very honest, the decision to keep O'Riley at the club should be a no-brainer for Celtic, no matter what the offer from Atletico Madrid. It is inevitable that he will leave the club, considering how well he has been performing and it will most probably be a Scottish-record exit.
There is absolutely zero reason for Celtic to consider parting ways with him this January though. There is not expected to be a lack of interested clubs next summer.
Of course, there is the possibility that O'Riley could get injured or his form might dip in the second half of the season. But that is a risk that the Hoops must take.
If O'Riley leaves Celtic, especially this late in the window, it would be impossible to replace him. And it would hand the Rangers a major advantage in the Premiership title race.