Celtic have agreed personal terms with Paulo Bernardo as they move closer to completing a £3.5 million permanent transfer, according to Sky Sports.
The Portuguese midfielder spent the 2023/24 season on loan at Parkhead and was a key player for Brendan Rodgers’ side, contributing to their Scottish Premiership and Scottish Cup victories over rivals Rangers.
The Hoops have now secured a five-year deal with the Benfica midfielder, following an agreement between the clubs last month.
Bernardo Enhances Celtic’s Squad Even More
Rodgers still wants to make more additions
So far this summer, Celtic have only managed to add two goalkeepers to their squad. Kasper Schmeichel has replaced Joe Hart as the number one between the sticks, and Viljami Sinisalo has taken over from Benjamin Siegrist as his back-up.
Rodgers has been eager to strengthen the squad all summer to enhance their chances in the new-look Champions League. The addition of Bernardo will ensure the team remains at least as strong as last year since they no longer need to find a replacement for him.
| Paulo Bernardo 2023/24 stats | |
|---|---|
| Games | 13(15) |
| Minutes | 1219 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Assists | 3 |
Celtic have been eager all summer to secure a permanent deal for the 22-year-old Paulo Bernardo, who was labeled as “brilliant” by former Bhoys man Mark Wilson last season. To finalize the transfer, Celtic agreed to a 30% sell-on clause with Benfica for any future sale should he be successful.
The club is also looking to make additional signings this summer, targeting Adam Idah after his successful loan spell in the second half of last season. Dara O’Shea and Michel-Ange Balikwisha are also reported targets to bolster the squad.
Matt O’Riley Might Fund Squad Revamp
Several clubs interested in Denmark international
Celtic are likely to need to spend a significant amount of money this summer to bring in all of their targets, and this could be funded by the exit of star midfielder Matt O’Riley.
The 23-year-old is a major target for Europa League winners Atalanta, who have had two bids rejected as the Hoops seek a club-record fee for their key player.
Premier League newcomers Southampton have also expressed their intention to sign O’Riley with a £14 million bid, which was also turned down by Celtic’s management.
Celtic are looking to earn around £25 million from his sale after he registered 18 goals and 13 assists in all competitions last season, earning him a spot in the PFA Team of the Year alongside teammates Cameron Carter-Vickers, Liam Scales, and Callum McGregor.