Celtic close in on Paulo Bernardo permanent deal as details of Benfica transfer package revealed

Celtic are confident they are close to striking a deal to sign Paulo Bernardo on a permanent basis from Benfica.

The Hoops took him on loan last season with an option to buy for just over £6 million. Celtic are looking to see if they can negotiate that and get the fee down. Talks are progressing well with Celtic willing to give more on add-ons as well as a sell-on fee. Brendan Rodgers is keen to sign the Portuguese playmaker on a permanent basis, with the 22-year-old aware he has no long-term future at Benfica.

Bernando has made it clear that his preference is to return to Scotland and he wants Benfica to strike a deal. Celtic are also looking at a number of midfielders. Lausanne Sport’s Alvyn Sanches is one who the Hoops’ scouting team are monitoring. He is rated at £4 million but Bernardo remains the preferred target.

Celtic could also move for Sanches if they were to sell Japanese star Reo Hatate who has attracted a lot of interest in recent windows. Celtic are advancing on a number of fronts, including a new goalkeeper to replace the recently retired Joe Hart.

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