Celtic could now sign Paulo Bernardo for ‘less than £6m’ – Hutton
Celtic will be “more than happy” if they sign Paulo Bernardo for less than £6million.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, former Rangers and Aston Villa defender Alan Hutton believes the midfielder has impressed lately after struggling to break into Brendan Rodgers’ XI.
Celtic signed the 22-year-old from Portuguese club Benfica on a season-long loan with an option to buy last September.
He has made 26 appearances for the Bhoys so far, and sources have told Football Insider that Celtic intend to activate his £6million option to buy clause.
Celtic told to sign loan star on permanent deal
Sources have also told Football Insider that the Scottish club plan to develop the youngster with a view to sell him for a big profit.
Hutton believes that is a road that Celtic are likely to go down should they manage to turn Bernardo’s loan deal into a permanent one.
“I think he probably took a little bit of time to settle, and it’s difficult to break into that three when you’ve got Reo Hatate, Matt O’Riley and Callum McGregor,” he told Football Insider.
“But due to injuries and different things, he’s come in and shown he’s got the quality, scored a really good goal against Livingston.
“£6million for Scotland is a lot of money, but Brendan Rodgers watches him day in, day out training, he sees him on the pitch and understands what he’s capable of.
“He’s at a good age, and they will be factoring in the possibility of growth to then sell on and make money, all of this comes into the decision.
“I think he ticks a lot of those boxes at this moment in time, but it just depends on where they need to spend their money in the off-season.
“I think if they can get him for a little bit less than £6million, they will be more than happy.”
In other news, Celtic defy expectations as documents reveal £46m payout.
For more Celtic and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.