‘Tough question’… Playmaker discusses possible summer exit after new links with Leeds United

Leeds, of course, have played Joel Piroe and Georgunio Rutter in the number 10 role this season, but ahead of the 2023-24 campaign neither Rutter nor Piroe were recognized as attacking midfielders.

Last summer, Leeds tried to sign Nadiem Amiri from Bayer Leverkusen and even had him at Elland Road for talks. But Amiri has since said he has commented on the failed move, with the German ace joining Mainz.

Kenny McLean has been the subject of a £4million bid for Leeds, while Celtic’s Matt O’Riley has also been a target. The Celtic ace just starred for The Hoops in 2023-24, helping them win the title with 37 goals and assists.

Leeds are understood to be linked with a move again this summer if the club win promotion, even though they have passed up a possible move to Yorkshire. Here’s what he had to say about a summer outing:

O’Riley has been sensational this season for Brendan Rodgers’ side as Celtic won their 12th league title in 13 years. Minutes, long-range shots, assists, he has a bit of everything a No.10 needs.

He certainly fits what Leeds would like to bring in as an attacking midfielder, but given his form domestically and in Europe for Celtic, a move to a big Premier League club, or even Europe, is likely .

Indeed, two of the Premier League’s big six are said to be in talks for O’Riley. But the midfielder has now commented on his future and, while leaving the door open, said it will be difficult to leave The Hoops.

O’Riley told Sky Sports (May 18, 3pm) after Celtic won the League title: “That’s a tough question. Yes, it would be very difficult (to move away from Celtic). I also said. The club means a lot to me.

“I think from day one I fell in love with the club because the fans are so crazy and passionate, you know, it’s a real fan base. Yeah, one more game to focus on and I’ll take it from there,” O’Riley said.

Kenny Miller is convinced Celtic star O’Riley is leaving

He has been linked with a host of clubs over the past two years after being signed by Spurs boss Ange Postecoglou from MK Dons. In no time, he blossomed into a top quality No.10.

Speaking earlier this month, Scotland and Rangers icon Kenny Miller spoke about O’Riley’s future and is convinced he will leave Parkhead. He believes Rodgers will have to find a replacement for O’Riley.

“If you add that end product then it can take your game to another level as a midfielder. There’s no doubt he could be one of the players that Brendan might need to replace, no doubt he’ll have suitors.”

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