Today marks a significant turning point for Atalanta as they inch closer to finalizing their long-standing negotiation with Celtic for versatile midfielder Matt O’Riley. This move is also pivotal for the potential transfer of Teun Koopmeiners to Juventus, which hinges on O’Riley’s arrival at Zingonia. The acquisition of the Danish player is essential for Atalanta to give the green light for Koopmeiners’ departure.
Recently, Atalanta made a new offer of €27 million to Celtic, who have been firm on their asking price of €29 million. The Scottish club remains steadfast, knowing that Brighton is keen on O’Riley and willing to meet their demands. However, O’Riley seems to favor a move to Atalanta, attracted by the chance to play in the Champions League. The negotiating team at Atalanta is waiting for a response to their latest offer, and as that delay continues, they are also exploring other options, albeit less likely ones, such as Udinese’s Lamar Samardzic.
Another round of discussions between Atalanta and Celtic is expected soon to help resolve this drawn-out situation. Head coach Gian Piero Gasperini is particularly eager to secure O’Riley to fill the void left by Koopmeiners, who has chosen not to train with Atalanta any longer in favor of a Juventus move. Meanwhile, both Koopmeiners and Thiago Motta, the coach at Juventus, are anticipating the completion of the transfer negotiations.
Atalanta is actively pursuing several other targets as well. They are looking to sign at least one winger, with discussions advancing for Brazilian player Wesley, a 20-year-old right-back from Flamengo. The club has submitted an offer of around €16 million plus bonuses but is still awaiting a definitive response. Talks are set to resume on August 16, following ongoing discussions.
Additionally, Atalanta has rekindled their interest in Kevin Danso, a 25-year-old center-back from Lens, to strengthen their defense. Previously, Lens had asked for nearly €30 million but has indicated a willingness to negotiate. Atalanta is prepared to offer €22 million plus €2 million in bonuses for the Austrian international, as they look to secure a reliable defensive reinforcement.
Should Danso join the squad, Gasperini may experiment with his new signing, Ben Godfrey, not just as a central defender but also potentially as a right-sided midfielder—a tactic seen when Godfrey substituted for Davide Zappacosta during the Super Cup final against Real Madrid. Another potential alternative to Danso is Rodrigo Becao, a former Udinese player currently not featuring regularly at Fenerbahce, who could seek a transfer.
