The Celtic rumour mill has been filled with speculation about Kieren Tierney's potential return to Parkhead over the last couple of days. That is because Arsenal are believed to have passed on the chance to extend his contract by another twelve months, meaning that his current deal will expire in the summer.
Tierney is not the only former Celtic player who has been constantly linked with a Parkhead return in recent times though. Jota is another one.
Jota left Celtic last year to join Al-Ittihad but his spell there was not fruitful. He was linked with a Parkhead return on numerous occasions before joining Rennes on a permanent basis this summer.
Unfortunately, Jota's time in France is not going much better. Rennes have changed managers as well, bringing in Jorge Sampaoli recently. And it looks like the Portuguese winger's spell with the club might be over much sooner than anybody could have anticipated when he was signed in the summer.
Jota closer to Celtic return after Rennes decision
As reported by L'Equipe (via The Scottish Sun), Rennes chiefs are planning a major squad overhaul in the coming weeks and Jota is believed to be one of the players they are looking to part ways with. The report suggests that the Portuguese winger is "already set to leave".
It remains to be seen how things turn out for Jota. There is reason to believe that Celtic might potentially be interested in a reunion though. On paper, the timing would make sense.
Celtic are already expected to look for a winger this January. Luis Palma is expected to be on his way out. They have been linked with Michel-Ange Balikwisha and a few other wingers. But if Jota becomes available, why not go for someone who is already proven at Parkhead and is a fan favourite?