Major claim made about Matt O'Riley's Celtic exit

Matt O'Riley is a fantastic player without a doubt and he is the best that Celtic have right now. Of course, as is often the case, he is being linked with a move away from Parkhead. And the Danish international seems headed to the very top. The likes of Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan and Manchester United are rumoured to hold an interest in the midfielder, and they are not the only ones either.

In fact, it is believed that Celtic turned down an offer from Atletico Madrid to sign O'Riley in the winter. Naturally, most fans believe that he will head away in the summer, having helped secure the league title and potentially the Scottish Cup as well.

Of course, there will be those who hope that O'Riley stays. He is still 23 years of age and has plenty of time to make a move away from Celtic. He could get even better, playing under the management of Brendan Rodgers for another season.

Keith Wyness appears to believe that O'Riley will stay put for another season. As reported by Football Insider, he said on the Insider Track podcast:

"From what I know, they did turn down a big bid for O’Riley last year.

“My gut feeling is that Rodgers will keep him and other stars around for one more season, and try and keep his squad together.

“They’ve had some good experience now. They’ve all won and lost in different areas.

“If they don’t succeed next season in making big progress, then it may be that O’Riley and a few others choose to move on.

“Next season is going to be pretty crucial to showing some steps forward under Rodgers."

Major claim made about Matt O'Riley's Celtic exit

Obviously, O'Riley staying on for another season would be great news for Celtic. He is clearly a key part of Rodgers' plans and thrives in the manager's system.

The improvement that O'Riley has made since last season is clear for all to see. That being said, it feels unlikely that he will stay at Celtic Park beyond this summer.

The opportunity to join clubs like Inter Milan, Atletico Madrid and Manchester United does not come around often when you playing your football at Celtic. Usually, there is another step between the two. If O'Riley gets the chance to make the jump directly, one would expect him to take it.

Although, it is worth pointing out that O'Riley has been very smart with his career choices. He decided to leave Fulham to play in League One with MK Dons. Not many of his age would have made that decision and it certainly paid off for him. So, who knows what the Danish international is planning as his next step.