Major update on Celtic's £6 million transfer deal
It is a wonderful time to be a Celtic fan. Just a day after Brendan Rodgers' side lifted the Premiership trophy at Parkhead, the women's team were successful in winning their league as well thanks to a late winner from Amy Gallacher. Of course, the campaign is not over yet and there is more silverware up for grabs, with the focus now shifting towards the upcoming Scottish Cup final against the Rangers.
No matter how that game turns out, there is reason to positive going into the summer. Celtic have secured Champions League qualification once again. And with that comes the need to strengthen further.
One player whose future at Parkhead is uncertain is Paulo Bernardo. The midfielder has gotten a decent bit of playing time while on loan at Celtic from Benfica. But whether the club will choose to sign him permanently or not remains to be seen.
As reported by Portuguese outlet Record (via Daily Record), Celtic are in no rush to make the deal permanent. The Hoops "have not indicated that they will trigger the purchase clause" and talks to keep Bernardo in Glasgow have "gone quiet".
Major update on Celtic's £6 million transfer deal
The option to sign Bernardo permanently from Benfica is believed to be set at around €7.5 million. For that kind of a figure, Celtic might want an automatic starter.
Bernardo has not been that this season. He has had good moments for sure, including a fantastic goal in one of the Glasgow Derbies. But overall, he has not been a consistent performer.
Also, when all of Celtic's midfielders are fit and available, Bernardo is not a regular starter. So, it is not hard to see why the club might have second thoughts or a lot to think about before making a move for the Portuguese youngster.