Former Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley is once again being linked with a summer transfer, with Atletico Madrid reportedly preparing a substantial move for the Danish international…
The ex-Celtic star has found it difficult to secure a regular role since arriving at Brighton in a £25 million switch in August 2024.
After struggling to make an immediate impact, O’Riley spent the first half of the campaign on loan at Marseille, where his performances in Ligue 1 and the Champions League drew widespread praise.
Matt O’Riley linked with sensational switch to Spanish giants
According to Sky Sports, Atletico boss Diego Simeone remains keen on the 25-year-old after previously attempting to sign him during his time at Celtic.
Since returning to Brighton in January, O’Riley has had limited involvement under Fabian Hurzeler, featuring only six times in the Premier League this season.
Despite his lack of minutes in England, interest from European clubs has continued to grow. Atletico previously failed with a £20 million offer for the midfielder in early 2024 before he went on to help Celtic secure another domestic double.
With questions remaining over his future at Brighton, a move to Spain may now become a realistic possibility. Celtic are also expected to benefit from any future transfer due to a sell-on clause included in the original agreement.
Celtic academy star could be on the move
In other news, Celtic academy talent Zion Pullan has reportedly emerged as target for Athletic Bilbao after earning recognition from Spain’s youth international setup.
The highly rated winger – who recently turned 15 – previously featured for Scotland at under-15 level but has now received his first invitation to represent Spain, the country where he was born.
Pullan has enjoyed an outstanding campaign within Celtic’s academy system, producing an impressive number of goals and assists across both the club’s under-15 and under-17 teams. His rapid progress has attracted growing attention from scouts across Europe.
Celtic U15 winger Zion Pullan has just received his first international call-up for Spain – he currently has 93 G/A this season.🤯🇪🇸
Zion has been playing for Celtic’s U15 and U17 age groups this season, and has also represented Scotland at U15 level.🏴
The young winger has… pic.twitter.com/sHxPw1DRfH
— The Talent Hunter 🎯 (@TalentHunter) May 5, 2026
Spanish outlet La Cantera De Lezama claims Athletic Bilbao have been closely monitoring the teenager’s development in recent months.
The La Liga side’s recruitment policy allows them to sign players with ties to the Basque region, and Pullan qualifies through his birthplace of Tudela in Navarre.
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