English club ready to make record bid for Celtic's Matt O'Riley

Matt O'Riley has been Celtic's most important player since Brendan Rodgers became the club's manager last summer, replacing Ange Postecoglou. Without the Danish international's contributions, the Hoops would not have even come close to winning the Premiership and Scottish Cup double. And if they are to show progress in Europe, then he will be a vital part.

Yet, O'Riley's future at Parkhead is clouded in uncertainty. Clubs around Europe are believed to be interested in the Celtic midfielder.

He has been linked with Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, Liverpool, Atalanta, Juventus and several other high-profile clubs. But it looks like Southampton are the ones looking to make a push and get the deal done.

As reported by The Sunday Mirror (via Daily Record), Southampton are "ready to eclipse" the Scottish transfer record for O'Riley. It is also noted that Brighton & Hove Albion are "showing an interest" in the midfielder.

English club ready to make record bid for Celtic's Matt O'Riley

Having to part ways with O'Riley would be a major blow for Celtic. But at the same time, it feels likely that the Danish midfielder will depart this summer.

Celtic are believed to have turned down an offer from Atletico Madrid in the winter. It is hard to imagine that O'Riley would let that kind of an opportunity go again, if it did come knocking this summer.

Of course, one has to wonder whether Southampton are a club O'Riley should be heading for next, if he were to leave Celtic. They have just made it back to the Premier League and there is no real guarantee that they will be able to avoid relegation next season.

If O'Riley does end up leaving, one would hope that he joins a top club who are ready to give him regular playing time. That seems like the next step in his career.