Jota calls Ittihad transfer bluff as Celtic hero turns tables on his OWN club over plot to ditch £25m man

Former Celtic star Jota has told Al-Ittihad he doesn't want to go anywhere after fresh details emerged over their bid to move on from the star they signed nine weeks ago.

The former Parkhead standout left Glasgow after two trophy-laden seasons in a stunning £25m move to Saudi Arabia. But it soon proved a disaster in the desert with whispers the Benfica graduate is an ill-fit for what boss Nuno wants from the Saudi Pro League champions. But despite the swirling distractions, the man himself has been doing his bit on and off the pitch. His goal against Al-Wehda was a reminder of his talents and he appears emboldened off the pitch.

Now Aawsat claims Jota has told senior management at Ittihad he isn't going anywhere over their push to move on from their summer signing as well as beloved Brazilian Romarinho. The cold feet from one of the biggest sides in Saudi comes amid their clear desire to land Mo Salah this summer and being able to only field eight non-Saudi Arabia born players in their matchday squads.

The same report insists Steven Gerrard would love to sign the winger as his Al-Ettifaq side seek a spark in the final third of the pitch to partner fellow former Celtic hero Moussa Dembele. Jota was beloved in Glasgow with 51 goal contributions in 83 appearances for the club.

But Jota, as of right now, isn't for moving as he believes he can build on his stirring cameo on Monday which could be aided with Karim Benzema on the treatment table after hobbling off in the first half.