Filipe Jota says his friends and family are delighted to see him thriving with Celtic while on loan from Benfica and is warming to a possible permanent transfer, via the Glasgow Times.
The Bhoys agreed a deal with As Aguias in August for Jota to spend the season at Parkhead under Ange Postecoglou. He has since proven a huge hit and a favourite of the Australian.
Jota has featured in – and started – all 16 games across all competitions so far since joining Celtic. He has also struck home seven goals and provided six assists as a leading creator.
He offered his latest goal as the Hoops lost away to Bayer Leverkusen in the Europa League on Thursday. A night Jota does not look back on fondly, unlike the rest of his Celtic career.
Jota warming to permanent Celtic transfer from Benfica
Jota has enjoyed his time at Celtic since finalising a season-long transfer from Benfica in the summer. He believes Parkhead is the best place for his career right now, but does not know where the Estadio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica hierarchy currently place his future at the club.
“I am very happy with Celtic,” Jota said. “The game against Bayer was not a nice night because we lost. But in my short career, I think being with Celtic is the best moment for me. But I don’t want to stop – I have plenty more I want to do.
“My head knows what I can do and I’m not going to stop until I reach what I’m supposed to. I don’t know what Benfica are thinking. But my family and friends are of course happy for me. What is done is done and I cannot stop, I need to do more and more.
“Success is something that can come really fast, but it can also go really fast. So, I just have to work a lot and remain humble.”
Celtic have a £6.5m option to buy Jota next summer included as part of their loan transfer agreement with Benfica. But he has long tried to avoid thinking long-term over his future.
However, his comments would hint he is warming to a permanent move, which would also have the backing of his friends and family. While Jota’s performances will no doubt have the Celtic hierarchy combing through their accounts to find the funds Benfica want.
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