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Manchester United have turned their attention to Celtic star, Matt O’Riley.
He has had a breakout season this year for the Scottish champions, scoring 13 goals in 42 appearances from the midfield.
His season has been so successful, that he won his first cap for Denmark last year and will be hoping to make the Euro 2024 squad this summer, where they will take on England in their second group game.
The Red Devils have suffered in numerous positions this year, but the midfield has been a particular source of frustration.
Casemiro and Christian Eriksen both enjoyed great debut seasons last year but have taken massive steps backwards this, with the latter barely playing in 2024.
The signing of Mason Mount has also been a failure as of now, due to the cruel injury problems that have ruined the player’s start to life at Old Trafford.
Add to this the abysmal performances of Sofyan Amrabat and the inconsistent play of Scott McTominay, 18 year old Kobbie Mainoo has been the one and only shining light in the sea of midfield darkness.
Consequently, Glasgow World reports United have turned their attention to O’Riley.
“Manchester United are running the rule over Matt O’Riley as the Celtic star looks set to become centre of a summer transfer race,” the outlet claims.
“It’s also suggested that … United have been monitoring O’Riley since 2022. Serie A giants Inter Milan and Atletico’s La Liga rivals Girona are other clubs who find themselves on a growing list of O’Riley ‘fans.’ It will be a pricy chase though as the Hoops will demand a Scottish record transfer fee”.
The 23 year old would certainly fit the INEOS model of signing players who seem they are about to break out and fulfil their potential in the near future.
His former boss at Swansea, Russell Martin, when describing the midfield man claimed, “it’s his mentality that sets him apart. He’s supremely confident and a super pro; his diet is spot on, and he’s really athletic, more than he is given credit for. He’s got everything to play at the top – for Denmark and in the Premier League.”
Atletico Madrid made a failed bid for the player back in January and are likely to return for him in the summer. Therefore, should United harbour a genuine interest in him, it is not a deal they can delay.
A youngish, British-based player who is clearly ready to test his level above the Scottish Premier League may well be a smart initial move by INEOS to bolster the weakened midfield department this summer.
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