Report: Newcastle United now keeping very close eye on ‘fantastic’ midfielder who Arsenal have been scouting for years

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Football Scotland claim Newcastle United are now keeping a very close eye on Celtic midfielder Matt O’Riley, a player who Arsenal have apparently been scouting for years.

The ‘fantastic’ O’Riley has been a revelation for Celtic ever since making the switch from MK Dons back in January.

He’s registered four goals and seven assists from central midfield. O’Riley has started the current season in brilliant form too, providing five assists for Ange Postecoglou’s men already.

Football journalist Dean Jones claims Arsenal have been watching the 21-year-old for years. And now it seems he’s caught the eye of another Premier League side.

Newcastle keeping close eye on O’Riley

Football Scotland reports that Newcastle scouts watched O’Riley in action on international duty this week.

The youngster represents Denmark and played for the under-21s side against Croatia.

The Celtic man even grabbed a goal as his side went on to win the game 2-1. But they eventually missed out on European Championship qualification on penalties.

O’Riley started his career at Fulham and looked to have a bright future ahead of him. But the youngster only made five appearances for the Cottagers and opted to leave back in 2020.

He’s shown real promise during his time at MK Dons and Celtic though and it’s no wonder he’s being scouted by top clubs. O’Riley is finally gaining valuable first-team experience at a high-level for Celtic, with the club currently playing Champions League football.

Newcastle are on the lookout for creative midfield players and O’Riley would certainly fit the bill.

The Magpies have been linked with a move for James Maddison over the summer and the Daily Mail reported that Newcastle saw two bids knocked back for the Leicester man. But the Celtic midfielder could represent a cheaper option if Leicester refuse to budge.

They’ll face stiff competition for the midfielder though, with Arsenal said to be keen. And the Gunners are also in need of adding depth to their midfield.