Celtic in advanced talks to sign Paulo Bernardo as new details emerge – sources
Celtic are in advanced talks to sign Paulo Bernardo on a permanent deal this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
The Scottish club are offering to include a sell-on clause in the deal to smooth the negotiations as they are some way apart from Benfica over the fee.
Sources say the Portuguese giants are holding out for around £6million to sanction a permanent exit for the central midfielder.
Brendan Rodgers has given the green light to Bernardo returning to Glasgow after he impressed on loan at Celtic Park last season.
The 22-year-old is under contract with Benfica until 2027, but Celtic are now looking to sign him permanently this summer.
Celtic could land permanent Paulo Bernardo deal after talks
Bernardo has spent the past 14 years with Benfica after coming through the club’s ranks and progressing into the first team.
But the Portuguese has seen his opportunities limited in Lisbon, having made just 26 senior appearances for the club.
After spending time on loan at Pacos de Ferreira in early 2023, Bernardo joined Celtic on a season-long loan deal last summer.
The midfielder started in 15 of his 33 appearances across the campaign, where he registered four goals and three assists, including the opener in his side’s 2-1 victory over Rangers last December.
Rodgers has now sanctioned a permanent move to sign Bernardo this summer, but Benfica’s £6million asking price is more than Celtic are looking to pay for his services.
The Glasgow club remain in advanced talks to land a deal for the Portuguese star after he helped them retain the Scottish Premiership title last season.
Former Scotland international Alan Hutton told Football Insider Celtic could look to sell midfielder Matt O’Riley to fund their move for Bernardo this summer.
In other news, two Premier League clubs enter the race to sign Celtic star.
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