Celtic midfielder Matt O'Riley could trade the Hoops for an English club in the near future, according to former Hoops striker Frank McAvennie.
The Lowdown: O'Riley drawing interest
The 22-year-old has matured into an influential performer for Ange Postecoglou's side, standing out with his silky style of play and wand-like left foot.
O'Riley has registered seven assists in 15 Scottish Premiership appearances this season, being hailed as 'excellent' by a UEFA Technical Observer after a recent Champions League clash.
The Englishman's current deal doesn't expire until 2026 but that's not to say that he won't leave in the near future, with a report from ESPN (via FI) revealing interest from several of the Premier League's elite in a deal that could cost up to £20m.
The Latest: McAvennie talks up exit
Reacting to that news in a chat with Football Insider, McAvennie admitted that O'Riley could be tempted by the wages on offer from the interest parties below the border:
"It depends what he wants. Does he want medals? Because he will get a good contract at Celtic I would imagine. It would see him out for the rest of his life.
"I would suggest if he goes to England it is not about winning things it will be about money. If he stays at Celtic he will win a lot more medals. If the right price comes in Celtic are going to look at it unfortunately."
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The Verdict: Sell up?
The hope is that O'Riley remains at Celtic for many years to come, considering what a creative hub of the team he has become since arriving from MK Dons earlier this year, playing 2.2 key passes per game in the league this season.
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The lure of the Premier League is great for any player however, for both footballing and financial reasons, and he could see that as a natural next step in his career.
Losing O'Riley so soon after arriving would be a big blow for Celtic, but with the report suggesting a deal could be in the £15-20m range, it's hard to envisage the board saying no.