Matt O’Riley transfer button pressed as Brighton move ahead of Chelsea in hunt for Celtic star

Brighton have made a 'formal bid' for Celtic midfielder Matt O'Riley.

The Danish star has been the subject of plenty of interest this summer with Atalanta recently giving up after having five bids knocked back by the Hoops and signing Lazar Samardzic instead. That's handed the initiative to other clubs in the hunt and Premier League side Brighton appear to have taken the reins.

Sky Sports are reporting they have made a 'formal bid' for O'Riley, specifically noting that they have 'moved ahead' of Chelsea in the hunt for his signature. They add that nothing has been agreed yet but that talks are set to continue 'over the next few days.' It's unclear as yet how much Brighton's offer is but Celtic are thought to be holding out for a fee in the region of £30m. Brendan Rodgers said on him on Sunday: "There is a value we have for him, and if that's not met he will be here - it's as simple as that. He is really happy here, but it has to be something that draws him away.

"I am not overthinking it. We all know the model here at Celtic - players will improve and they will get to a level that get beyond, not the club, but in terms of the financial salary. But until that comes we continue to work with him."