Matt O'Riley's stance on leaving Celtic for Atalanta emerges

Celtic are believed to have turned down a transfer approach from Atalanta for Matt O'Riley recently. Of course, this is not the first time that the club have done that. Last winter, Atletico Madrid made an offer to sign the Danish international as well but the Hoops were not open to the prospect of parting ways with their star performer, especially in the middle of the season.

One has to wonder though whether O'Riley is open to the prospect of remaining at Celtic for another season. Especially when clubs like Atletico Madrid, Inter Milan, Atalanta as well as several teams from the Premier League are believed to be interested in signing him.

O'Riley was Celtic's best player last season and by some distance. According to stats from Transfermarkt, he scored 19 goals and provided 18 assists in 49 appearances in the previous campaign.

Obviously, that kind of form has caught the attention of teams around Europe. Atalanta are expected to make another move for O'Riley. What is the midfielder's stance on a potential move to the Serie A club though?

Matt O'Riley's stance on leaving Celtic for Atalanta emerges

As reported by HITC, O'Riley is very keen on a move that would see him join Atalanta. He is a prime candidate to replace Teun Koopmeiners should the Dutchman seal a £50 million switch to Juventus.

Of course, if O'Riley does indeed leave this summer then Celtic will have big boots to fill. It is hard to think of many players they could bring in, who would provide that kind of output from midfield.

At the same time though, this is the just reality of life at Celtic. Often, the club's best players end up leaving. One can only hope that they are well-prepared already, in case O'Riley completes a move away from Parkhead this summer.