"Positive talks between both parties" - Journalist drops exciting Celtic claim on £6.3m star

Celtic are expected to be holding ‘positive talks’ with Jota ahead of the winger sealing his permanent switch to Parkhead, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

Jota joined the Bhoys on a season-long loan from Portuguese giants Benfica during last summer’s transfer window, but it appears he now has a long-term future in Glasgow.

According to Jornal de Noticias, Celtic have informed Benfica that they will exercise the £6.3million purchase clause written into the loan agreement.

The report suggests Jota, who is represented by super-agent Jorge Mendes, is keen to remain with the Scottish Premiership giants and has told his parent club that he wants to complete the permanent switch.

Portuguese media outlet A Bola have revealed Celtic have already opened contract negotiations with the winger as they are eager to tie up a deal as soon as possible.

However, the same publication – via The Scotsman – have claimed Benfica are now looking to include a 30 per cent sell-on clause in the agreement which will take Jota to Parkhead beyond the end of the season.

Should the 23-year-old’s transfer go through, he will become the ninth most expensive signing in Celtic’s history.

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O’Rourke is not expecting Celtic to have any problems when it comes to persuading Jota to sign on the dotted line and remain at Parkhead permanently.

The journalist also feels the Portuguese ace will be an exciting long-term addition to Bhoys boss Ange Postecoglou’s squad.

O’Rourke told GIVEMESPORT: “You would imagine there should be positive talks between both parties.

“Jota has come out and said he would like to stay at Celtic on a permanent basis, which is good