Russell Martin drops transfer update in Southampton pursuit of key target Matt O’Riley

Celtic's midfielder #33 Matt O'Riley (R) kicks the ball during the first half of the pre-season club friendly football match between Chelsea FC and Celtic FC at Notre Dame Stadium in South Bend, Indiana, on July 27, 2024. (Photo by KAMIL KRZACZYNSKI / AFP) (Photo by KAMIL KRZACZYNSKI/AFP via Getty Images)

Russell Martin has given Southampton fans the update they’ve been eagerly awaiting regarding the club’s pursuit of Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley.

Southampton has been active in the transfer market this summer, with Martin making eight first-team signings. The club has spent over £55 million in an effort to build a squad capable of remaining in the Premier League this season.

However, the two biggest signings, costing £18 million and £20 million respectively, were for Flynn Downes and Taylor Harwood-Bellis, both of whom were with the club last season. This raises questions about whether Southampton has truly strengthened their starting XI compared to last season, especially with the Premier League season just days away from kicking off against Newcastle United.

One player who could bring the star quality they need is Matt O’Riley, and Martin has now provided an update on the club’s pursuit of the Celtic midfielder.

Celtic's midfielder #33 Matt O'Riley (R) kicks the ball during the first half of the pre-season club friendly football match between Chelsea FC  an...

Russell Martin gives damning verdict on Southampton’s Matt O’Riley chances

Russell Martin, who previously worked with Matt O’Riley at Swansea City, is eager for a reunion with the midfielder. Southampton expressed their interest by submitting a bid to Celtic, aiming to secure O’Riley after his impressive 37 goal contributions last season. However, the competition for O’Riley’s signature is fierce, driving up his transfer price.

In a recent interview with TalkSPORT journalist Alex Crook, Martin provided an update on the situation, revealing that Southampton is “not in the race right now” for O’Riley. This suggests that, for the moment, the club’s pursuit of the attacking midfielder has stalled, despite Martin’s clear interest in bringing him to St Mary’s.

Martin may be bluffing over Southampton pursuit of O’Riley

Southampton manager Russell Martin during the pre-season friendly between Southampton and Lazio at St Mary's Stadium on August 07, 2024 in Southamp...

Celtic find themselves in a strong position this summer, with several clubs expressing interest in Matt O’Riley. Europa League winners Atalanta have already had four bids turned down, while Southampton and Brighton remain keen on the 23-year-old.

Celtic are reportedly holding out for around £30 million, a potential record fee for both the Scottish Premiership and Southampton. Whether Southampton can meet that valuation is uncertain, but if Russell Martin is willing to spend big, O’Riley could be the player to justify it.

While Southampton fans might be disappointed by Martin’s recent update, they can still hope that he is being cautious in revealing his transfer plans.

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