- EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey
Southampton have a long history of signing players from Celtic and Russell Martin is now keen to launch another raid on the Bhoys this summer.
Southampton are now back in the Premier League after just one season away and could move to sign a Celtic player once again.
The Saints have previously raided Celtic for the likes of Fraser Forster, Virgil van Dijk, Victor Wanyama and Stuart Armstrong.
After landing the likes of Adam Lallana, Charlie Taylor, Ronnie Edwards, Nathan Wood, Yukinari Sugawara and Flynn Downes, Southampton are now looking to take one of Celtic’s key men.
HITC understands that Southampton and Celtic are continuing talks with over a deal for Matt O’Riley.
Southampton chase move for Celtic star
HITC is told that Saints boss Russell Martin is determined to land the Danish midfielder this summer.
Martin coached O’Riley at Milton Keynes Dons and wanted to bring him to Swansea City in 2022, according to Wales Online.
Celtic won the race and O’Riley has now racked up 27 goals and 34 assists in 121 appearances for the Bhoys.
HITC understands that Atalanta have been making moves for O’Riley but haven’t met Celtic’s asking price.
We can also confirm that the two clubs have also spoken about Shea Charles going in the opposite direction.
Charles would not be a like for like replacement for O’Riley and HITC is told that Celtic are long-term admirers of the former Manchester City man.
The Northern Ireland international came up in the City ranks before leaving for Southampton last summer.
The Saints showed faith in Charles, paying £10.5million rising to £15million according to Sky Sports.
Charles was in and out of the Southampton side, starting 15 Championship games and coming off the bench in 18 more.
The 20-year-old is now being discussed for a move to Celtic, where he would play under fellow Northern Irishman Brendan Rodgers.
Celtic chase two signings
Allowing O’Riley to leave would help Celtic in their pursuit of Paulo Bernardo and Adam Idah.
Both players had outstanding loan spells last season and HITC understands that they are continuing talks with Benfica and Norwich City respectively over deals to bring them back.
As it stands though, Celtic have been unable to reach agreements for either player.
With the Scottish season starting on August 3rd, Celtic would like both players back at the club.
A deal for Bernardo is believed to be on the brink of being agreed, whilst terms for Idah are still someway from being confirmed.
Bernardo notched four goals and three assists in 33 Celtic outings whilst Idah enjoyed a prolific spell of nine goals in 19 games.
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