Celtic transfer news bulletin as Brighton launch Matt O'Riley 'talks' and Schmeichel blown away by 'incredible welcome'

Brighton have reportedly opened up talks with Celtic over a potential deal for talisman Matt O'Riley.

Last season's Premiership Player of the Year is being courted by a number of clubs across the continent this summer, with Europa League winners Atalanta seeing multiple bids for the Denmark international turfed out by the Hoops. The likes of Liverpool and Leicester have also been credited with an interest in the 23-year-old, but Sky Sports report that fellow Premier League side Brighton have stepped up their attempts to land the attacking midfielder.

Chelsea are also said to be keeping tabs on O'Riley and could make a move for the Celtic star if they sell Conor Gallagher to Atletico Madrid, who have also been linked with O'Riley and had a bid turfed out in January. The Hoops number 33 still has three years remaining on his deal at Parkhead, with the club in a strong position to demand a sizeable fee for their most prized asset.

Elsewhere in Glasgow's East End, a proud Kasper Schmeichel admits his Celtic debut exceeded expectations and he’s been overwhelmed by his welcome. The goalkeeper was watched by dad Peter as he marked his first competitive outing with a clean sheet in the 4-0 win over Kilmarnock.

Schmeichel savoured the occasion and reckons the experience has merely heightened his desire to enjoy success during his time in Glasgow.Reflecting on the Killie win, he said: “It exceeded expectation. It's been an incredible welcome.

“I must say it's been overwhelming and something that makes me very proud. But also it makes me very, very motivated to keep winning for this team."

Schmeichel did not have much to do as the champions turned on the style against Derek McInnes’ men. The No.1 told Celtic TV: “If I could have a