Scottish pundit can’t believe Jota could return to Benfica after Sky’s Celtic update
Alan Hutton has tipped Jota to sign a “long-term contract” at Celtic to turn his move from Benfica permanent this month.
The former Scotland defender, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, suggested the 22-year-old would want to “kick on” at Parkhead after a successful first half of the season.
As reported by Sky Sports on Tuesday (4 December), Celtic have opened talks with Benfica about triggering Jota’s £6.5m optional purchase clause this month.
Hutton insisted the ball is in Celtic’s court to get a deal done.
He suggested Jota would love to commit his future to the Bhoys.
Hutton told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “I think he had an opportunity to go to Celtic and really shine. He has grabbed it with both hands.
“I think the ball’s pretty much in Celtic’s court. The clause is there, I think it’s £6.5million, to go and sign the player.
“If that has been put in the contract and they trigger that, then the fee has already been put in place. You have to accept it.
“Then it’s really down to the player. Does he want to sign the long-term contract or does he want to go back to Benfica? It’s an interesting one.
“Celtic have really given him that platform to go and shine. I think he’d want to stay where he is. He looks happy, he’s playing well, why can he not kick on from there?
“He’s done really well. He can now get back from injury and go have a good second half of the season.
“When you’re signed, you know where you’re going to be for the next few years. You can just concentrate solely on your football.
“I think he looks happy and that’s what he’s wanting to do.”
Jota has scored eight goals and contributed six assists in 18 appearances for Celtic.
He has missed the Hoops’ last couple of games with a hamstring injury.
In other news, medical expert fears ‘serious damage’ to Celtic star after ‘Grade three’ muscle tear.