Matt O'Riley £15million Atalanta proposal knocked back as Celtic decline transfer talks

Celtic have rebuffed an Atalanta offer for Matt O'Riley.

Football Scotland can reveal the Europa League holders submitted a formal approach of £15million for the playmaker but talks were declined by the Scottish champions who are determined to keep hold of their star man. O'Riley hit 19 goals and provided 18 assists for the club last season and cleaned up at their player of the year awards. That has prompted clubs around Europe to take a closer look at the Danish international and the Serie A side tabled a bid.

It is believed La Dea are already plotting a fresh approach after their initial terms were turfed out. It comes after Brendan Rodgers made it clear he did not want to lose his midfield asset back in January when an offer was also knocked back from Atletico Madrid.

Southampton are also said to be keen on the 23-year-old with former MK Dons boss Russell Martin interested in a reunion with his ex-player.

The Saints have just been promoted to the Premier League and have been touted as a possible destination for O'Riley should Celts consider a sale. £20million has been the suggested price for that deal, according to reports down south.

Atalanta, meanwhile, are bracing themselves to lose superstar Teun Koopmeiners who is wanted by new Juventus boss Thiago Motta.

And that leaves a slot in their engine room they hoped to fill with O'Riley.