Celtic agree to sell Matt O’Riley to Brighton for Scottish record £30m
MATT O’RILEY is on the verge of completing his record-breaking move to Brighton after Celtic agreed a deal in principle with the Seagulls last night worth up to £30million.
Italian club Atalanta had made several unsuccessful bids for the 23-year-old over the summer, but his departure was sealed when the English club finally reached Celtic’s desired valuation of £26m.
However, Mail Sport has learned that fee – £1million more than the club’s record fee from Al Ittihad for Jota – will increase by £4million with additional contracts during the player’s time in England.
The Denmark international is expected to miss Celtic’s away match against St Mirren tomorrow as he travels south to complete formalities.
Celtic have agreed the sale of Matt O’Riley to Brighton for £30m
Brendan Rodgers will look to strengthen his squad before the transfer window closes
Brendan Rodgers will now step up his efforts to replace the player with Mateusz Bogusz, the LAFC attacking midfielder who is available for around £8million.
The deal with O’Riley is an extraordinary business transaction for the Parkhead club.
The Fulham academy graduate joined from Ange Postecoglou-managed MK Dons in January 2022 for just £1.5million.
The midfielder won three titles, two Scottish Cups and a League Cup and was promoted to a full international.
His performances in the Champions League caught the attention of Atletico Madrid.
Celtic rejected the Spanish giants’ £20million bid for him in January, but his form throughout the season (19 goals and 18 assists) ensured he was still in demand.