Matt O'Riley Celtic transfer exit prospect earns firm Brendan Rodgers response amid Girona interest

Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers has moved to close the exit door for Matt O’Riley with La Liga leaders Girona keeping tabs on the midfielder.

Record Sport understands Parkhead chiefs have not yet received an offer for the 23-year-old but that the Danish international has attracted attention from several sides in England, Italy and Spain after a spectacular two years in Glasgow following his £1.5m switch from MK Dons. O'Riley has been among the top performers for Celtic this season and Serie A heavyweights Inter Milan are also among his admirers.

However, with surprise Spanish league leaders Girona now said to be in the running Rodgers has played down speculation - insisting the club have no need to sell. Asked if he was aware of any interest in O'Riley at this stage, he said: "None. Not aware of any. But it is natural if you have good players they will attract attention. I'm not focussed on that at all."

Speaking ahead of the Scottish Cup clash with Buckie Thistle, Rodgers added: "The club is in a really strong position. We have no need to sell, and we have no thoughts of selling. Naturally it's the time of the season where there is a lot of speculation and gossip around players. I see the likes of Matt and he is really, really happy here.

"He has signed a new deal. He has really progressed and is in double figures with his goal and his assists are there. For him as a young player, as a brilliant professional all he wants to do is improve, and you can see the improvement. We just take it day by day and assess it from there."