Celtic pulled off two magnificent loan deals last summer, bringing in Jota from Benfica and Cameron Carter-Vickers from Tottenham Hotspur. Both established themselves as regular starters in Ange Postecoglou’s side and played key roles in the Hoops’ unexpected Premiership and League Cup double. Thus, it is not hard to understand why the fans have been so desperate to see them being signed on a permanent basis.

In the case of Carter-Vickers, the deal is already over the line, as Celtic have signed him from Tottenham Hotspur on a deal that could rise up to £10 million with add-ons. Thus, he could potentially end up becoming the most expensive signing in the history of the club.

On the other hand, it is believed that they have an option to buy set at a transfer fee around €7.5 million for Jota. And all the noise coming out of the Portuguese media has suggested that a permanent move to Parkhead is only a matter of time for the winger.

As reported by Record, Benfica consider it crucial to part ways with a number of their players soon. The name of Jota seems to be on that list.

Celtic handed Jota transfer boost by Benfica decision

One of the worries that a lot of Celtic fans had about the attempt to sign Jota on a permanent basis was whether the player would want to return to Benfica and try to make it at his boyhood club.

That option does not seem to be on the table as it looks like the Portuguese giants are ready to part ways with Jota. As a result, it makes all the sense in the world for him to head back to Celtic, where he has enjoyed a wonderful time till now.

According to stats from Transfermarkt, he scored 13 goals and provided 14 assists in 40 appearances for Celtic last season.

It is worth pointing out that Jota had struggled heavily at the senior level before his move to Parkhead, failing to make a mark at Benfica and then on loan at Real Valladolid. But Ange Postecoglou seems to have gotten the best out of him.