Newly-promoted Southampton are looking to bolster their ranks in order to give themselves the best chance of survival next term and despite only achieving promotion last weekend, are already thinking about the forthcoming season.
As the side who were promoted via the play-offs, the odds are already against the Saints, yet they have a strong core of the squad who are more than good enough for the top flight. Additions are however needed, especially from a depth standpoint if they want to preserve their top flight status.
It’s unlikely that manager Russell Martin will have much time off this summer with both the excitement and pressure of managing in the top flight for the first time just around the corner. It seems as if he’s already making some transfer plans to help with the switch, one of those being targeting a former player.
The Scottish Sun have reported that Southampton are eyeing up a move for Celtic star Matt O’Riley, who has been mightily impressive for the Scottish Champions this term. With 18 goals and a further 13 assists in the Premiership this season, O’Riley has been one of the standout players for the Celts.
At just 23-years-of-age he possesses bundles of potential and could take his form to another level in England’s top flight. He’s a player who manager Russell Martin is a huge fan of, having managed him at MK Dons earlier in his career.
The signs of O’Riley being a classy player were rather easy to see during his time with the Dons despite being just 20 when making his debut for the club. He’d end up playing 54 times in all competitions with the now-League Two side, the majority of those appearances coming in the third tier. The Danish international would shine under Martin during their short time together and a reunion could see the midfielder reach new heights.
He’d leave the Dons for a reported £1.5 million fee, which is merely a drop in the water compared to the £25 million that The Scottish Sun have stated that Celtic want.
It is unknown whether the club will receive any sell-on fee but the original transfer to Celtic was reported by Sky Sports to have add-ons within the deal.
Writer’s View
O’Riley has established himself as one of the very best players in the Scottish Premiership this season and if he wants to further put his name on the map, then a move back to England gives him a great opportunity to do just that.
His relationship with Russell Martin will play a big part if he was to sign and he’d be expected to hit the ground running as a result. The first goal for Southampton next term will be survival, but they could surprise a few people if recruiting well.
MK Dons on the other hand will be hoping that they can uncover another hidden gem like O’Riley, who they signed on a free transfer from Fulham. Only just missing out on promotion via the play-offs, they’ll be one of the favourites next season and could return to League One if everything falls into place.
