Celtic’s ‘stance’ on Paulo Bernardo’s permanent move following Champions League windfall assured

The Scottish champions have the alternative to purchase the 22-year-old loanee this summer.

Celtic have reportedly yet to point out to Benfica if they sketch to seal a permanent deal for Paulo Bernardo.

The midfielder is inching nearer to the end of his season-long mortgage from the Lisbon giants – but his deal includes a clause that capability a £6million bid would be sufficient to convey the 22-year-old Scottish Premiership champions long-term. However, according to Portuguese outlet Record the Hoops are in no rush to make the deal permanent.

Reports had in the past advised that Celtic had aimed to negotiate a decrease fee for the Portugal U21 cap that would see him be part of Brendan Rodgers’ aspect as soon as again subsequent term. But it now appears that talks between the pair have long past cold with Bernardo’s long-term future “still unknown”. As it stands, Celtic “have not indicated that they will trigger the purchase clause” and talks to keep Bernardo in Glasgow’s east quit have “gone quiet”.

The document notes that Celtic have guaranteed Champions League football next term following their title triumph, and explains that the prolong in talks could be due to the the Parkhead switch authorities believing “they can spend the money better elsewhere”. Bernardo enjoyed a run in the staring line-up amid injuries to Reo Hatate and Callum McGregor.

Since then, he has commonly been deployed as a alternative by means of Rodgers. His closing begin came returned in March towards St Johnstone – and Bernardo has only made six extra look for the Hoops.