Celtic’s ongoing pursuit of Paulo Bernardo could have gained momentum as talks continue

Add as preferred source on Google

Celtic are trying to thrash out a deal to bring Paulo Bernardo back to the club from Benfica after his successful loan spell last term.

The Portugal Under-21 international has been in talks over returning to Parkhead in a deal that is mooted to be worth roughly £4 million plus add-ons.

Time is of the essence for Celtic to get transfers over the line in time for their USA tour. Free agent Kasper Schmeichel is set to fill the goalkeeping berth, with his medical scheduled this week.

Hyeongyu Oh’s departure to Genk could accelerate a swoop for Adam Idah to bolster the Hoops’ forward line. Similar to Bernardo, discussions have continued surrounding a transfer as Brendan Rodgers prioritises tried and tested players over unknown quantities.

That seems to be the theme of this window. Bernardo and Idah have already shown their worth at Celtic; meanwhile, Schmeichel is someone the Irishman knows first-hand from their time spent at Leicester City.

Making business sense, the Bhoys’ pursuit of Bernardo could’ve gained some traction following developments over the weekend, if reports are to be believed.

Paulo Bernardo leaves Benfica camp to continue Celtic talks

According to Portuguese outlet OJogo, Bernardo has left Benfica’s training base after not being selected in the squad for their 2-2 draw against Celta Vigo in pre-season.

The publication claim his absence is in direct correlation to ongoing discussions over a potential move to Celtic, which could quicken the process of an agreement being struck.

As it stands, the Hoops are still trying to solicit a deal with the start of the Scottish Premiership campaign looming in a few weeks.

Midfield bodies are needed to supplement the squad, and Bernardo is someone who has all the requisite qualities to make a slot his own under Rodgers should a transfer indeed go through.

Last campaign, the Almada-born man registered four goals and three assists in 33 appearances. Providing valuable depth in midfield, the Benfica man now seems destined to leave the capital city club to make his mark elsewhere in the game.

Leandro Barreiro and Tomas Cruz have recently landed in Lisbon, populating the engine room and pushing Bernardo further down the pecking order. That could end up being beneficial for Celtic, who are pushing to get his signature over the line.