Paulo Bernardo has officially signed for Celtic, permanently, from Benfica after a successful loan spell at the club last season.
The Portuguese midfielder made 33 appearances in all competitions in 2023/24 and proved to be a capable depth option, popping up with some big goals including against Rangers.
Bernardo, 22, has signed a five-year contract with the Scottish champions until the summer of 2029 and the club will hopefully benefit from the next phase of his football development.
The pursuit of Bernardo has dragged on all summer as Celtic first negotiated with Benfica and then had to iron out details with the player himself.
Thankfully all the loose ends have been tied up and fans can look forward to seeing the player in action quickly given he has gone through a pre-season with his former club.
Bernardo is delighted to sign for Celtic he ‘loves’
The player told the club’s official website: “It’s amazing for me and it’s a big step in my career. I really enjoyed last season when we won the championship and the cup, so it was great for me – my first two titles in my career, too.
“I love the club, I love the fans and I love the city, too, so it’s very, very nice to be here again. I love the atmosphere at Celtic Park and away in all the games. Celtic is a big, big club. The fans feed us in the game so we can score one more goal or win the game in the last minute. They show that they love the club and I think they really like me too, so I love them.
“I trained this pre-season with Benfica so I’m fit, I did my own work at home to be even fitter so I’m ready. I want to become champion again and I think we can do that again, and I’m very excited to be here.”
Manager Brendan Rodgers added: “I am delighted that we have secured Paulo on this long-term contract. Paulo had a real desire to join us permanently, having had a great experience already at Celtic, and from our side we wanted to bring a quality player who has already made such an important contribution to the club.
“Paulo made a great impact for us at some real pivotal moments, delivering for us when he needed to for the team and we are sure that he can bring that same determination, ability and quality to us over the next number of years. He has been a popular figure in the dressing-room and I know the rest of the players will welcome him back warmly.”
How much Celtic paid for Paulo Bernardo
Celtic are reported to have negotiated a fee of around £3.5m, with a hefty 30% sell-on clause included on any future deal the Bhoys make on his departure. It’s a similar situation to Jota’s arrival from Benfica after an initial loan.
Meanwhile, it’s said that the Bhoys will put Bernardo on a contract with a basic wage below £20,000-per-week with additional appearance bonuses on top of that.
All in all, it’s pretty good business from the club. They’re getting a known quantity with a strong profile who undoubtedly has a role to play within Rodgers’ squad over the next 12 months and beyond.
Everyone is looking forward to seeing how he progresses from here with a settled home and more development under the manager.
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