Pundit reacts to update in West Ham United transfer pursuit of Celtic ace Matt O’Riley
Johan Mjallby admits it will be hard for Celtic to hold on to Matt O’Riley amid interest from West Ham, Brighton and Everton.
The Scottish Sun reported that Celtic value the Denmark international at over £20million as they rejected a £20million bid from Atletico Madrid in January and the Hammers are poised to amplify their interest.
The 23-year-old has been a consistent performer for the Hoops and has been linked regularly with a move away from the club.
Speaking to Celtic Way, as quoted by the Daily Record, Mjallby said:
“He’s been playing very well in the last couple of seasons. He’s got a cracking left foot, with a deft touch and he scores a lot of goals. He’s a cracking footballer.
“If you play well for the Glasgow sides there is always going to be rumours and interest from other clubs. That’s normal.
“Being a Celtic supporter now, I would love him to stay at the club. But it’s inevitable there will be sides down south and in Europe who are looking at him.
“When you play in massive games like cup finals and for your national team, it’s a great window to show how good you are. O’Riley is a matchwinner.”
West Ham must go all out to secure Celtic ace Matt O’Riley’s transfer
O’Riley’s consistent performances and ability to influence games make him a valuable asset and the Hammers must pursue his services.
The 23-year-old has contributed to 35 goals in all competitions this season, scoring 19 times and providing 16 assists.
This level of productivity and versatility in the midfield is something West Ham could greatly benefit from.
Moreover, O’Riley’s potential arrival could address the club’s need for a creative midfielder who can contribute to both scoring and setting up goals with Lucas Paqueta on his way out.
His proficiency at set pieces and ability to pick out passes through the lines could significantly enhance the club’s attacking capabilities.
The Denmark international’s experience in the Scottish Premiership and his performances in the Champions League demonstrate his ability to perform at a high level in different competitions and he certainly would be worth the outlay.
In other West Ham news, the wife of a Hammers player has potentially stirred up a controversy with her recent comments on social media accusing the club of bias.
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