Celtic’s Matt O’Riley was the subject of a concrete approach from Atlético Madrid in the winter market but they weren’t able to find an agreement with Brendan Rodgers’ side.
That’s according to Tipsbladet, who now state that Celtic received a ‘gigantic’ bid from the La Liga side for the 23-year-old in January.
Los Rojiblancos wanted to take the midfielder on a loan deal with an obligation to buy set at £18m, which didn’t please Brendan Rodgers’ side.
The Denmark international has been one of the standout players for Celtic this season, scoring 10 goals and registering 12 assists from 35 games.
Diego Simeone was keen on bringing him to the club last month but Atlético didn’t return with an improved bid.
As well as Los Rojiblancos, Girona also reportedly failed to take the Dane away from Celtic last month.
O’Riley’s contract at Celtic Park lasts until 2027 and Brendan Rodgers’ side could demand more than £25m in the summer, if he were to extend his fine form until the end of the season.
