Ange Postecoglou says he is ‘hopeful’ of retaining Jota and Cameron Carter-Vickers at Celtic, stating that discussions are ongoing with both players about a permanent switch to the Bhoys.
As you’ll know, the duo are at Celtic on season-long loan deals from Benfica and Tottenham Hotspur. The Bhoys retain purchase options on both players.
Postecoglou has confirmed it is his intent to activate those clauses and reckons both players are very happy at the club.
Speaking in a press conference today, he gave the clearest sign yet that the double transfer move a lot of supporters want is a goer.
The Celtic boss said [YouTube]: “We are in discussions with them obviously and I have said all along with these kinds of things it is never a simple process.
“Both players have had unbelievable years for us and have been outstanding contributors. Both are really happy here.
“Our intent is to try and keep them at our football club. With all these things you need a point where all parties agree and I am hopeful we will get to that point. At this stage, we are not quite there yet.”
Clearly, nothing is guaranteed. There are multiple factors in play here. However, it’s also obvious that Postecoglou has had no indication from either that they want to leave.
I don’t think the Celtic boss would be speaking so positively here if he didn’t have a degree of confidence this could be done.
Reports have indicated discussions are at an advanced stage, but hearing it from the manager is always more comforting.
If we can land these two players, it sets us up really well for a positive transfer window overall, with other positions also needing strengthening.
In other news, Ange Postecoglou discusses taking Celtic to ‘the next level’; what every supporter wants to hear.
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