Benfica legend Alvaro Maghalaes has urged the Portuguese side to agree a permanent sale of playmaker Jota to Celtic – with a fee of £6m said to be required. Jota has starred for Celtic since joining the Scottish club on loan.
Jota, 22, has had a hand in 20 goals during his 32 league and cup outings for Ange Postecoglou’s side this season – scoring 10 and creating 10. He has had an injury and since the knock, is yet to show his early-season form again.
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But in his last two league games, he has notched two assists. He is likely to be in the frame to start against Rangers at Ibrox on Sunday – give he has started the last six league games. But Postecoglou might go for pace, instead.
Indeed, the Aussia gaffer might choose the likes of Daizen Maeda and Liel Abada on the wings – while Kyogo Furuhashi is also fit. Jota, though, has been excellent, and many are desperate to see him signed permanently.
The Record report talks are ongoing with s £6million permanent fee included in his loan. Alvaro has urged Benfica to cash in on the versatile playmaker; his time at Champions League quarter-finalists Benfica is over.
“I think so (he should be sold to Celtic). He has had many opportunities and has not managed to consolidate his quality as a player. He was loaned and there is no doubt that he is having a good season in Scotland,” Alvaro said.
Alvaro on Jota: Celtic are getting a bargain in Jota, for just £6m
Celtic, like it or not, are a selling club – as are Rangers. If either team is to thrive, their recruitment has to be crucial. Buying players on the cheap and selling them on for a much larger fee. It means, signings need resale value.
Jota has enormous resale value. To sign a player of his ability and potential for just £6million, at 22, then they are getting a bargain. A couple of seasons, shining at Celtic, will surely attract a larger fee from Premier League clubs.
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