John Hartson has urged Celtic to snap up Benfica winger Jota as soon as possible after a fine star to life in Scotland.
Jota arrived on loan from the Portuguese heavyweights in the summer. Already, he’s managed to make the left-wing spot his own with four direct goal contributions in seven appearances [Transfermarkt].
The player appears to be loving life in Scotland whilst fans have also been calling for him to be signed up permanently too. Especially before any other interested parties come into the mix.
And Hartson has become the latest one to urge Celtic to pay the money immediately.
Speaking on the Go Radio Football Show last night, Hartson said: “Pay it now because the longer we go into the season and his performances get better…get him in now.
“I like him. I don’t think that midfield have been great, but I think our front three have been exceptional. Abada, Jota, and Kyogo – they’ve been magnificent. I really feel going forward there are goals in the team.
“I like Jota’s work rate. He’s up and down and he gives everything. Abada’s very clever and puts the ball in early.”
Celtic won’t rush into any move for Jota
Hartson probably falls into the same trap many of ourselves do. We all get attached to attacking players that have a good start at the club. However, it’s all about whether they can show it on a consistent basis.
Sky Sports reported after the player signed that Celtic would need to spend over £6m to sign the Portuguese youngster permanently. At the moment, that looks like a steal based on his early performances. But let’s not forget we were saying the same thing after Shane Duffy’s early displays last season.
I know. Two different players playing in two different positions. But the base point remains the same. We can’t go rushing into a deal for Jota just now that would take such a large chunk up of our budget. Especially when there remains glaring holes in the squad at the moment.
Celtic will want to make sure that, should they splash out, they’re getting a talent that can produce on a consistent basis. Of course this comes with its own risks. Other clubs may become interested and the player may become interested in something else by then. But that’s a risk worth taking considering the fee involved.
The hype, meanwhile, can’t be ignored. This is a player that’s winning over the support and pundits very quickly. Fingers crossed he keeps it going.
In other news, SPFL boss claims Celtic could finish 4th as he wins this year’s most bizarre prediction yet
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