“Ideal James Maddison replacement” – Leicester City keen on Celtic star: The verdict

Matt O’Riley is attracting interest from Leicester City, as TEAMtalk reports.

With nine goals and eight assists in 24 competitive games this season, the Celtic midfielder has excelled both at home and in the Champions League.

Nonetheless, Leicester showed interest in him prior to the season, and it’s hardly surprising that the Foxes have continued to monitor him given his 2023–24 record.

Having spent plenty of money on additions during the summer, it wouldn’t be a surprise if the Foxes didn’t do much next month.

But an approach for O’Riley could potentially be on the cards.

Other clubs in the race for Matt O’Riley

Newcastle United is reportedly considering a move for him.

If Eddie Howe is the top target at St. James’ Park, you would think the Magpies’ owners would support him and bring the midfielder in.

However, they are not the only team interested in signing him; West Ham United, the Magpies’ Premier League rivals, and Enzo Maresca’s team are also mentioned.

Given that two elite teams are showing interest in the 23-year-old, Leicester may have a difficult time pursuing a signing.

Leicester City to Matt O’Riley: “Perfect James Maddison substitute”

Two Football League World journalists have weighed in on whether O’Riley would be a decent addition at King Power Stadium in light of the possibility of a January transfer move.

Adam Jones

His record of goals and assists makes him appear to be the perfect James Maddison substitute.

The futures of several Foxes players, including Kelechi Iheanacho, Jamie Vardy, Patson Daka, Stephy Mavididi, and Abdul Fatawu, are in doubt, despite the team already having a wealth of attacking threats at their disposal.

Additionally, O’Riley would be a great addition in the closing third through the middle, and his efforts could help Leicester cross the finish line as they aim to clinch a first-ever top-flight return.

He would not only be a valuable addition to the Championship, but you would also support him to succeed in the highest division, which is perfect for Leicester.

And he’s only going to grow better at 23.

Chris Gallagher

Leicester City would be really fortunate to have this player.

O’Riley is an excellent football player, and even if Celtic hasn’t had the best season by their typically high standards, he is one of the few players who has progressed under Brendan Rodgers’ direction.

If the Foxes could persuade O’Riley to relocate to the King Power Stadium, it would be a huge coup. In reality, you would think more renowned Premier League clubs would be keeping an eye on O’Riley.

The midfielder’s style would fit very well with Enzo Maresca’s philosophy, therefore if at all feasible, they ought to pursue it.

Although it seems doubtful, a January signing would be a true statement signing for Leicester if they can pull it off.