The fee Celtic will pay for Paulo Bernardo as former loanee edges closer to Parkhead return

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Paulo Bernardo’s name has been on the lips of Celtic fans all summer amid speculation over his future and whether it will be at Parkhead.

Now back at Benfica after a successful loan spell at the club last term, the Bhoys have been locked in talks to try and push his signature over the line.

Earlier this week, Bernardo left the Portuguese giants’ training camp to continue discussions with Celtic as Brendan Rodgers wields the transfer axe.

Last campaign, the Portugal Under-21 international registered four goals and three assists in 33 appearances, offering a flavour of what he has to offer in the engine room.

Celtic need midfield bodies; that much is clear. According to various reports, it now appears that the dial has shifted in this transfer saga.

Stephen McGowan’s exciting update on Paulo Bernardo

Taking to social media platform X, McGowan has confirmed that Celtic and Benfica have agreed on a fee in the region of £3.5 million for Bernardo, and all parties have now moved on to sorting out his terms ahead of a move.

He stated: “Celtic and Benfica have agreed a £3.5m fee for Paulo Bernardo. Player terms now being worked out.”

Conceivably, there could be potential add-ons, a sell-on clause or other stipulations included; however, the baseline sum Celtic are set to pay has been revealed.

Portuguese outlet A Bola have added fuel to the fire. They claim that Bernardo is ‘on his way’ to Celtic for less than the €7 million (£5.8 million) Benfica initially wanted to recoup for his services.

Reading between the lines, it seems as if it is only a matter of time before Bernardo joins the Bhoys on a permanent basis. With their USA tour this week, it would make sense for Rodgers to have some shiny new arrivals to parade to fans Stateside.

Hopefully, this deal can be wrapped up. Bernardo is a cultured midfielder and you get the impression there is more to come from him at Celtic.