A look at the latest Leeds United transfer rumours on Saturday, September 30.
‘Celtic playmaker Matt O’Riley could have earned more money at Leeds United’
Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers reveals Leeds United target Matt O’Riley could have earned a significant pay rise had the Scottish club sanctioned a move to Elland Road this summer. The Whites are understood to have had a bid rejected in the region of £10-15million, with the Danish youth international a key part of Rodgers’ plans.
“It was an open conversation [when it came to the bid] and that’s what I’ve always had here with Michael [Nicholson] and the guys [on the board],” the 50-year-old told the Scotsman. “I didn’t think we could afford to lose another starter and the club were very supportive on that.
“They were great. We had obviously lost [Carl] Starfelt and lost Jota and we knew Cameron Carter-Vickers was going to be out for a while. I didn’t feel we could lose another one.
“But, of course, that’s all on the player as well because if the player really wants to move and pushes for it, then I’m also a believer that if he doesn’t want to be here then don’t be here. I’ve got experience of that, where you think you can keep them for another year but they are not the same player if they really, really want to go. I never got that feeling at all from Matt.
“He knows that I’m investing in him to help him become better. He still knows he’s got a bit to improve and I hope this part of the season is confirmation for him that I can still improve him as a player and develop him. Certainly his value will increase in 12 months time.
“With the greatest respect he could have earned significantly more money by leaving. But that is not everything for him. He is investing in his football and becoming a better player.