Liverpool suffer blow as Atalanta make surprise £14 million move for midfield target - Reports

Liverpool are reportedly at risk of missing out on Celtic midfielder Matt O'Riley, with Atalanta leapfrogging them in the race to sign the Dane. The 23-year-old flourished at Celtic Park last season and is one of the Reds' transfer targets this summer.

The Times reports that the Serie A side have launched a £14 million bid for O'Riley. He's expected to leave the reigning Scottish Premiership Champions this summer and a move to Anfield looked a possibility.

Liverpool could still win the race to sign O'Riley because the bid has reportedly been rejected, per Sky Sports. It's the second offer made by the UEFA Europa League champions, and it remains to be seen if they'll return again for the two-cap Denmark international.

O'Riley appeared 49 times across competitions last season, registering an impressive 19 goals and 18 assists. His contract expires in 2027, and there is a ton of interest in his services.

Atletico Madrid had a £20 million offer for O'Riley rejected in January. Celtic have stood firm over the in-demand London-born central midfielder. He rose through Fulham's youth ranks before moving to MK Dons in 2021. The Bhoys came swooping a year later, and he's since been a star man in Scotland's top tier.

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New Liverpool boss Arne Slot has reportedly put new

signings on hold amid pre-season

Liverpool are yet to make a new signing despite a new era dawning at Anfield with Slot replacing Jurgen Klopp. The Dutch tactician officially succeeded the iconic German coach earlier this month, and he's got to work with his Reds side.

However, the Merseysiders' lack of transfer activity has been concerning fans. Their rivals, such as Manchester United, Manchester City, and Chelsea, have done plenty of business.

The Daily Mail's Lewis Steele claims Slot has paused transfer activity so he can assess his squad during the pre-season tour of the United States. He'll be able to get a better understanding of his squad and what additions might need to be made.

Liverpool finished third in the Premier League last season with 82 points in 38 games. The Reds won the Carabao Cup, but their collapse in the title race was disappointing.

Three players have left Anfield this summer: Spanish goalkeeper Adrian, midfielder Thiago Alcantara, and Cameroonian defender Joel Matip. They may need replacing once Slot gets to grips with the squad in the United States.