Report: Celtic keen to act now on exciting transfer option

By Euan Davidson

November 6, 2021

Portuguese media outlet A Bola believe Celtic are seriously considering activating the transfer option they have for Benfica winger Jota.

The report says that while Celtic have until the summer to bring him on an permanent transfer, the Bhoys are keen on acting now.

A Bola also point out that prominent pundits, including Owen Hargreaves and Paul Lambert, have endorsed a transfer to Celtic for Jota.

Jota has been phenomenal since joining the Bhoys on loan in August. He’s mustered 9 goal contributions in 13 games thus far [Transfermarkt], with two important assists coming in the Europa League.

Not only that, but his link-up play with Kyogo and Abada, two other Celtic transfer pick-ups this summer past, has been outstanding. The trio have been devastating, not least against Ferencvaros on Thursday night.

The fleet-footed Portuguese winger has certainly bought into life at Celtic, especially with Ange Postecoglou at the helm. After the Bhoys beat Ferencvaros, Jota said [BT Sport]:

“We just have to believe in [Ange’s] ideas. If we work as a team, if we listen to what he says, then everything will be better on the pitch. That’s what we’re looking to do.”

Meanwhile, he told Celtic’s in house media:

“[My family] really happy with everything going on. They say to me I have grown up with this philosophy that it’s easy to get there, but it’s difficult to maintain the level. Only the greatest can do that.

“I’m just looking to keep on improving, remain humble and achieve really good things. This couldn’t happen without the support of the team. If I can help with my goals and assists and playing my football, that’s what I’m looking for.”

Our view: obviously, Celtic have to get this transfer done after Jota’s rip-roaring start to life in Glasgow

This is the definition of a no-brainer. There is no brain required here. Celtic have the chance to seal a talent like Jota in a transfer worth less than £7m.

While praise of Jota has been widespread, what’s forgotten is how worried we were about the left-flank going into the season. Mikey Johnston was still unfit. Mohamed Elyounoussi was gone. Ryan Christie, on the verge of a move, was filling in to decent effect, but would surely leave too.

Now, Celtic have Jota, Kyogo can fill in there, and Mikey Johnston is fit again. Undoubtedly, though, it’s the Portuguese winger who’s the stand-out choice here.

Few players have sounded and looked as excited about being at Celtic as Jota has this season. Of all of the Hoops’ keen recruits in 21-22, it’s the smiley winger who’s been most exuberant.

Under a boss that espouses the values of humility, effort and sacrifice, Jota has fit right in.

Really, there’s little point waiting, here. If Celtic have the funds to make a Jota transfer a reality, it’s well worth doing. Not just because of what he’s doing now, but what he can do for the club in years to come.

Read more: “More to give”; Celtic boss backs summer signing for even bigger impact; not Kyogo