Celtic Looks to Sign Alvyn Sanches as O'Riley's Replacement

Celtic FC is actively seeking a replacement for midfielder Matt O’Riley, with Lausanne’s Alvyn Sanches emerging as a key target. This comes after Atalanta's recent bid of £21.5 million, plus £2 million in add-ons, for O’Riley was rejected by the Scottish champions. Celtic is determined to secure a record transfer fee, exceeding the previous high of £25 million from the sales of Kieran Tierney and Jota. Manager Brendan Rodgers has made it clear that the club will not entertain any offers until their valuation for the 23-year-old is met. Atalanta, who recently lost to Real Madrid in the European Super Cup Final, view O’Riley as a suitable replacement for Teun Koopmeiners, who is set to join Juventus. The Italian club is also considering Udinese's Lazar Samardzic as an alternative. Meanwhile, O’Riley remains calm about his future, and should he depart before the transfer window closes, Celtic is prepared to pursue potential replacements. Sanches, a 21-year-old Swiss under-21 international, is attracting interest from several clubs, including Nice, Club Bruges, Anderlecht, and Burnley. He is keen to advance his career and is expected to leave Switzerland soon. Additionally, Celtic has been linked with Belgian prospect Arne Engels, valued at £10 million, who has been making waves with Bundesliga side Augsburg. Celtic has also been monitoring Dundee forward Luke McCowan, although no formal interest has been established yet, as Hibernian has already tested Dundee's resolve regarding the 26-year-old player.