Jota's summer exit is one of the reasons why Celtic need more quality signings. His departure to Al-Ittihad has left a significant gap in the Hoops' side. The summer signings brought in to replace the Portuguese superstar have not yet proved good enough. Luis Palma has shown flashes of quality but is struggling at the moment. Yang Hyun-jun and Marco Tilio do not seem to be ready to even feature regularly.
But then Jota’s move and time at Al-Ittihad hasn’t been all it could have been either. He has had to get by with occasional appearances since the beginning. Within a few weeks of him leaving Parkhead, there was talk of a swift return back to the club.
As Celtic have struggled to break down defences and suffered some disappointing defeats, the call for more quality in the squad has increased. Fans would certainly like to see Jota return. Probably manager Brendan Rodgers and captain Callum McGregor would be delighted too. But unfortunately, it does not seem to be on the cards.
As reported by WinWin (via Daily Record), Celtic were approached over the prospect of a deal. But the Hoops appear to have closed that door over the "exorbitant" fees involved.
Celtic make Jota transfer decision after approach over return
Al-Ittihad appear keen to part ways with their £25 million summer signing. But a return to Parkhead might not be possible due to the finances involved.
A move to an English Premier League club may be a more likely option for Jota. Ange Postecoglou, who is Tottenham Hotspur manager now, could possibly be interested in a reunion. A move to Nottingham Forest would be much less likely given their recent appointment of Nuno Espirito Santo.
The proposed figures may be "exorbitant" to Celtic but perhaps less so to Premier League clubs. Their finances are a world apart compared to Scottish teams. Jota returning to Parkhead would have been perfect but it looks like the Hoops will have to find their much-needed quality signings elsewhere.