Celtic and Benfica are in discussions over a deal for Paulo Bernardo. The clubs have been in negotiations about a permanent deal for the U21 Internationalist, who impressed on loan last season. The player has returned to the Portuguese side for pre-season but a report has said that he is keen on a deal.
According to Record Sport, Bernardo wants to sign for Celtic with the teams locked in talks over the deal as Brendan Rodgers’ side look to negotiate down the £6m ‘guide price.’ The loan deal stipulated that Celtic could be able to adjust the fee if they sought to.
Now, this report has been a positive update for fans, who are waiting on the club making their first signing of the season. Celtic had been looking to negotiate down the option to buy and Benfica appeared to be receptive to this. The rumours online appeared to be that £3.5m would be enough to get the player back to Paradise but the trail went cold after a suggestion about wages.
The midfielder made 33 appearances in all competitions, scoring four times and assisting on three occasions. Despite not having the prolific numbers of colleague O’Riley, there were flashes throughout the season of what Bernardo can become under the tutelage of Brendan. Rodgers will be hoping that he can bring both Bernardo and another loan star back to Paradise.
