Celtic close in on Matt O'Riley replacement after hijacking deal - pundit

Hannibal Mejbri would be a great signing for either Celtic or Rangers as the two clubs fight for the Manchester United midfielder’s signature.

That’s according to ex-Scotland international Alan Hutton, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, Hutton believes that Mejbri, 21, could even be Celtic’s replacement for wantaway Denmark midfielder Matt O’Riley, 23.

Football Insider revealed (August 9) that Celtic are plotting to hijack Rangers’ deal for the Tunisian midfielder.

Rangers’ failure to qualify for the Champions League group stage following their defeat to Dynamo Kyiv on Tuesday has dented their hopes of bringing Mejbri to the Ibrox.

Hannibal Mejbri set to choose between Celtic and Rangers

The Tunisia international broke into the Man United first team back in 2021 but has struggled to hold down a spot with only 13 appearances and one goal.

Mejbri spent the second half of last season on loan at Spanish club Sevilla but failed to score in his six appearances at the club.

“I like him, I think he’s a really talented footballer”, Hutton told Football Insider.

“I think he’s getting to that stage in his career where he needs to play regular football.

“The times when I have seen him at Manchester United, and you know, as a player looking in, how heavy that shirt can be but he takes it, puffs out his chest and he gives everything.

“The potential is there and I’m not surprised that the Old Firm clubs are looking at him, I think he could slot right in.

“You’d think if O’Riley was to go, Celtic would be looking for a midfielder and I think Rangers could use someone like that in there for competition as well.

“It’ll come down to him because I’m sure he’s got other options as well possibly in the Premier League and abroad.

“For him, it’ll be about assessing his options, looking to see where he’ll get the most minutes, and then deciding.

“Of course, I’d rather see him at Rangers.”

In other news, Shankland to Rangers deal update after £30m news.

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