Celtic have officially signed Paulo Bernardo on a season-long loan from Benfica but, crucially, will have the option to buy the midfielder should he impress in Glasgow.
The Bhoys have utilised option-to-buy loans very well in recent years with moves for Cameron Carter-Vickers, Jota and Odsonne Edouard all paying off strongly for the club.
Bernardo will be eager to make a similar impact and said on his arrival [Celtic FC]: “I’m very excited to be here. It’s a great club and I’m ready to be on the pitch and to help the team.
“Our ambition is to be champions and perform very well in the group stages of the Champions League and go as far as we can.”
Manager Brendan Rodgers added in the club announcement: “Paulo is a young player who come in with the opportunity to give us more strength in depth in that midfield area.
“He’s already gained first-team experience at a top-class club in Benfica, which is something he will bring to Celtic, and we’re looking forward to working with him over the course of this season.”
Bernardo has made 23 appearances in total for Benfica and impressed out on loan at Pacos Ferreira in the Portuguese top-flight last term.
MORE CELTIC STORIES
Still just 21, he’s represented Portugal at every youth international age group from the U15s to the U21s. He is a very highly rated prospect and hopefully he can immediately compete for a place in Rodgers’ starting eleven.
Rodgers does have midfield options but an injury to Reo Hatate has left less than ideal combinations and fans will be hoping that Bernardo is a quick and robust box-to-box player who can make a strong impact.
In other news, Celtic knocked back £7m bid for Liel Abada before contract announcement.