Stiliyan Petrov has told Sky Sports News (24/06, 11:30) that Celtic ‘have to’ sign Jota as the winger proved to be crucial at Parkhead during his loan transfer from Benfica last season.
Ange Postecoglou agreed a season-long deal for the Portuguese on deadline day in August. But the Bhoys’ deal with the Aguias expires on June 30, at which point Jota would have to return to his boyhood club at the Estadio da Luz where his contract will not end until 2024.
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Jota enjoyed a creative campaign during his time in Glasgow, offering what Petrov believes was a different dimension to Celtic’s other wide options. The 23-year-old found the net 13 times and laid on 14 assists from 40 appearances in all competitions to help win two titles.
Celtic reclaimed the Premiership from Rangers, and lifted their 20th League Cup with a 2-1 win over Hibernian in December. Jota offered 10 of his strikes and 11 assists during league fixtures, while additionally finding the net once across two appearances in the League Cup.
Petrov urges Celtic to sign Jota in permanent transfer from Benfica
A permanent transfer has been on the cards for Jota all term, with Celtic holding an option to sign the Benfica loanee this summer. The Daily Record even noted the Hoops expected to finalise his move in late May after exercising the £6.5m deal, but talks have dragged on.
Discussions between the Parkhead outfit and Jota’s representatives over his contract were the only hurdle left standing at the time. Celtic had the outline of a deal ready for the U21 international to sign, but he is yet to put pen to paper to commit to the Hoops long-term.
Petrov has now urged Celtic to resolve the situation to sign Jota from Benfica permanently this summer. He is adamant the fan-favourite must stay at Parkhead for what he can offer.
“They have to, they have to” Petrov stated. “He was an important player last season, and he’s a huge favourite with the fans. I believe that they will get it over the line and he will be a part of that team again, because the excitement he brings into the team is different.
“He brings a different side when he plays to Celtic’s view altogether. So, it seems like they are going to get it over [the line]. But it seems like it’s not done yet.”
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