Paulo Bernardo wants Celtic move this summer as Benfica’s asking price is revealed

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• EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey

HITC understands that Celtic and Benfica are in talks over a deal for Paulo Bernardo with the player keen to return to the Scottish club this summer.

The 22-year-old enjoyed a loan spell to the Parkhead side last season where he played a key role in their title-winning campaign.

Paulo Bernardo returned to Portugal after the end of the season and was set to resume training at Benfica‘s campus with the rest of the squad.

However, Portuguese outlet O Jogo report that Bernardo has now left the training squad after not being named in the lineup for their pre-season friendly against Celta de Vigo on Saturday.

HITC understands that talks are ongoing between Celtic and Benfica as the Glasgow giants attempt to bring Bernardo back to Scotland on a permanent basis.

Sources have told HITC that Bernardo wants to move on from Benfica amid the ongoing negotiations.

Benfica name asking price for Paulo Bernardo

Based on his training ground exit, it appears that Bernardo’s future at Benfica is all but over.

HITC understands that the Portuguese outfit want an offer of at least £5million plus add-ons to allow him to leave this summer.

It is understood that an agreement is not far away with Celtic currently willing to offer around £4million for his signature.

Celtic have made a slow start to the transfer window with Brendan Rodgers‘ side yet to finalise any deals. Bernardo’s return to the Hoops would be their first piece of summer business.

He scored four goals and registered three assists for Celtic during his loan spell last season.

Paulo Bernardo at Celtic next season

There is no doubt that Bernardo has more to offer after a promising first season in Scotland.

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At 22, he still boasts plenty of potential and if he is pushing to return to Celtic then he clearly feels that is the right environment to nurture his ability.

Celtic will have their sights set on retaining the Scottish Premiership next season and bringing Bernardo back into their squad will only strengthen their title defence.