Celtic are starting to bulk up their squad after the arrival of goalkeeper Viljami Sinisalo because Paulo Bernardo is now expected to join him.
The 22-year-old was on loan at Celtic during the previous campaign and impressed many by producing big-game moments for the team.
Over the winter period, the Portuguese star was crucial for Brendan Rodgers, especially as he had injuries in midfield and he also played his part in Celtic winning the Scottish Cup final.
And now, to the delight of the supporters, Paulo Bernardo is set to make a return to Parkhead and sign a permanent deal from Benfica.
Sources have told HITC that Bernardo wants the move to Celtic and he left Benfica’s training ground upon returning from pre-season after not being named in the lineup for their pre-season friendly against Celta de Vigo.
It further indicates that a transfer to the Scottish Premiership champions is imminent and Rodgers will get his man.
At the start of the summer, Mark Wilson was reluctant for the Bhoys to pay what he thought was ‘£5-6 million’ for the midfielder’s services.
But now Wilson has been told that the transfer fee is closer to ‘£3.5 million’ and he has now changed his mind by adding that ‘it looks a lot better than what a lot of people thought the initial fee could have been’, as he told Clyde 1.
Celtic to sign Paulo Bernardo for £3.5 million
“I think Celtic fans will be happy that the goalkeeper situation now looks to be addressed,” said Wilson. “Very much looks like Sinisalo is going to be the back-up keeper. But talks with Kasper Schmeichel on-going.
“I wonder if they are planning on unveiling a few at the same time, especially if Bernardo gets over the line. £3.5 million looks a lot better than what a lot of people thought the initial fee could have been. I include myself in that.
“We spoke about Bernardo at the end of the season and if he would be worth that money. I think it was touted at £5-6 million. I didn’t think so. But I certainly think he is worth £3.5 million. I think that would be a good bit of business, if they get Idah over the line, if they get Schmeichel. Would they unveil all four in one go? I think Celtic fans will be pleased at least they have one over the line.”
Perfect move for both parties
There is a lot of talk about Matt O’Riley’s future at Celtic and you feel if he is going to leave, then Rodgers will need options.
This might not be a case of one player filling that void, but a couple, including Bernardo stepping in and ensuring the club continue to perform at a high level.
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Bernardo just needs the regular starts and he proved last season that the quality is there for him to progress near the same levels in which O’Riley has done.
This is a perfect move for the champions and the player himself because it wouldn’t be a surprise if he is one of Celtic’s top players by the time the 2024/25 season is out.
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