Celtic transfer latest: Bernardo sets timeframe & Saudi chief outlines Jota plan

Paulo Bernardo could become Celtic’s first summer signing as negotiations continue with Benfica.

The Hoops have been locked in talks with the Portuguese giants for a number of weeks as they attempt to bring the Portugal Under-21 star back to Parkhead on a permanent basis. It’s believed Benfica are holding out for a fee in the region of £4million plus add-ons which could include a substantial sell-on clause.

Bernardo is also keen on the move after being told he has no future with the Eagles, and according to the Daily Mail, hopes to have the deal rubber-stamped in time for him to fly out with Brendan Rodgers’ squad for their USA pre-season next week.

Rodgers also wants the club to push the boat out on a deal to sign Scottish Cup hero Adam Idah. Celts have already had a £4m bid thrown out by Norwich City but are refusing to take no for an answer. However, the Canaries are reluctant to sell their homegrown star, with newly-appointed boss Johannes Hoff Thorup declaring that he sees the 23-year-old as part of his plans.

Meanwhile the champions are desperately seeking a successor to the retired Joe Hart, and as Football Scotland first revealed on June 6, Sparta Prague No1 Peter Vindahl Jensen is their priority target. The Parkhead club will likely have to fork up around £8million to land the uncapped Dane, who is determined to force his way into the international set-up. Discussions are ongoing between both clubs.

Meanwhile the Double-winners continue to be linked with Costa Rican starlet Andy Rojas and the 18-year-old admits he wants to test himself in Europe. The Herediano sensation is attracting major interest from clubs in Spain and Portugal and sports director Robert Garbanzo confirmed yesterday that two offers have already been tabled for the rising star. Now, Rojas has spoken out about his future.

One player who won’t be heading to Glasgow is Treble-winner Jota. Reports in the Middle East had suggested that the Portuguese star would ‘love’ a return to Parkhead this summer after a disappointing debut season with Al-Ittihad. But Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Sport, Abdulaziz bin Turki Al Saud has ruled out a potential exit for Jota.