Transfer Centre

Transfer news and rumours: Almiron talks, Dubravka uncertainty, Saints want O'Riley

By Darren Plant, Senior Reporter | 02 July 2024

Sports Mole rounds up the latest transfer news and rumours, including uncertainty over two Newcastle United players and Southampton pushing for a Celtic star.

Newcastle United playmaker Miguel Almiron is reportedly attracting concrete interest from the Saudi Pro League.

Although Almiron is a cult hero at St James' Park, speculation has persisted that the Magpies are open to offers for the 30-year-old.

Just two years remain on the Paraguay international's contract and it remains to be seen whether he will be offered fresh terms or want to sign them.

According to the Daily Mail, Al Ettifaq are interested in securing a deal for Almiron during the summer transfer window.

Steven Gerrard's side have just finished in sixth position in the top flight, with the ambition now to challenge for the continental places.

However, with Newcastle having just cashed in on Elliot Anderson and Yankuba Minteh, the North-East outfit may not necessarily be in a rush to accept any offer below their valuation.

Newcastle United's Martin Dubravka celebrates after winning the penalty shootout on February 27, 2024 © Reuters

Dubravka uncertain over Newcastle future

Staying on the subject of Newcastle and goalkeeper Martin Dubravka has acknowledged that he is eager to hold discussions with manager Eddie Howe about his future.

In the absence of the injured Nick Pope, Dubravka made 30 outings in all competitions during 2023-24, but the situation between the sticks at St James' Park has drastically changed.

As well as Pope returning to fitness, the Magpies have moved to sign Odysseas Vlachodimos and John Ruddy to add further competition between the sticks.

With Dubravka having just one year left on his contract, it appears that the Slovakia international will move onto pastures new, yet the veteran is keen to speak with Howe.

Per the Daily Mail, Dubravka said: "I have no idea. I have seen they are talking with other goalkeepers.

"I need to speak with the manager first. What is the plan for me? What is my future? I don't know if they want me to stay or not. It is difficult for me, because I have been focussed on my job with the national team."

Celtic are among the clubs who are known to be monitoring the situation with the Glasgow giants requiring a replacement for Joe Hart, who has retired.

Celtic's Matt O'Riley celebrates scoring their fourth goal on May 15, 2024 © Reuters

Southampton keen to sign Celtic midfielder

Southampton are reportedly interested in one of Celtic's current players and star men in midfielder Matt O'Riley.

The 23-year-old has proven to be one of Celtic's best pieces of business in their history, contributing 27 goals and 34 assists from 121 appearances in all competitions since signing for £1.5m from MK Dons.

O'Riley's efforts have naturally led to widespread interest from elsewhere, with Atletico Madrid having tried and failed to acquire his services in January.

According to talkSPORT, Southampton are planning to try to test Celtic's resolve with a £20m bid for the Denmark international.

Head coach Russell Martin is no stranger to O'Riley having worked him during his time at MK Dons, a factor that may be taken into consideration by the player.

Nevertheless, there have recently been suggestions that Celtic will insist on a fee in the region of £33m if formal approaches are made over the coming months.