Celtic are on the verge of losing one of their most important players in the form of Jota. The Portuguese winger has been key to the Hoops ever since his arrival in the summer of 2021, first on a season-long loan from Benfica and then on a permanent basis. But it looks like his stay at Parkhead is only going to be of two years.
Jota is closing in on a move to Al-Ittihad, who have also signed Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kante very recently. And the move makes sense for all parties involved.
Rumours have suggested that Jota has already agreed personal terms on a life-changing contract with Al-Ittihad. On the other hand, Celtic are set to pocket a major transfer fee as well.
As reported by Football Scotland, the transfer of Jota will land Celtic an initial transfer fee around £20 million, and that could rise to £25 million should certain clauses be met. A deal is now close with just the two clubs still to green-light the move.
Jota transfer fee emerges with Celtic exit very close
Jota leaving the club will be a blow for Celtic without doubt. But at the same time, this looks like an offer that neither the Hoops nor the player could have turned down. Rumours have suggested that the Portuguese winger will earn north of £10 million-a-year at Al-Ittihad.
The task for Celtic now will be to find a suitable replacement for Jota. They are bringing in a huge transfer fee for him and the fans will surely want to see that reinvested back into Brendan Rodgers’ squad.
It will also be interesting to see what the move means for the future of Liel Abada. He was expected to leave this summer. But the exit of Jota does open up a starting spot in the team, which he could take up.