Celtic players have certainly been making trips to watch Liverpool play in recent times. It was just last weekend that Liel Abada and Nir Bitton were at the Etihad Stadium to watch Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City take on Jurgen Klopp’s side. And now, another one of the Hoops’ first-team stars has made a visit to England.

Liverpool faced Benfica in the second leg of their UEFA Champions League tie at Anfield. And while the Portuguese side put in a commendable effort, ultimately, The Reds proved too much for them over the two legs. They are definitely one of the best teams in the world right now.

As reported by the Daily Record, Jota was spotted outside Anfield ahead of Liverpool’s game with Benfica. Pictures of him with fans there started doing the rounds on social media as well.

Jota is currently on a season-long loan at Celtic from Benfica. The Hoops are believed to have an option to buy included in the deal though which is believed to be a transfer fee in the range of £6 million and £6.5 million.

Can Celtic sign Jota on a permanent basis from Benfica?

It looks like Jota was in Liverpool to watch his parent club in action. It is worth remembering that he joined Benfica back in 2007, when he was around 8 years of age. Thus, he grew up as a supporter of The Eagles and it should come as no surprise that he wanted to be in attendance for  a game of this magnitude.

For Celtic though, the big question would be whether they can sign him on a permanent basis from the Portuguese club, especially if Jota is provided the opportunity to be a first-team regular there.

Discussions are believed to be ongoing regarding a potential permanent move for Jota and it remains to be seen if Celtic can pull it off. One thing that plays in the Hoops’ favour in this regard is the fact that the Portuguese winger already has his place nailed down in the starting XI at Parkhead. That has never been the case at Benfica.

Also, if Celtic are able to qualify for the main stage of the Champions League, that would give their chances of keeping Jota at Parkhead beyond this season a major boost.