The Saudi Pro League’s ambitious summer recruitment drive shows no signs of slowing down, with Betbuzz365 sources confirming Al-Ittihad’s advanced negotiations to sign Celtic’s Portuguese winger Jota in a deal worth £25m. As the Glasgow giants brace for his departure, Brendan Rodgers is already reshaping his squad with strategic signings.
Breaking Down Jota’s Potential Transfer
Al-Ittihad, fresh from securing Karim Benzema and N’Golo Kanté, are now focusing on finalizing payment structures with Celtic. The Saudi club’s financial muscle makes personal terms a mere formality, with the transfer likely to conclude within days.
Benfica retains a 30% sell-on clause from Jota’s initial move to Celtic, netting them £7.5m from this deal. The 24-year-old’s 15 goals and 12 assists last season made him indispensable at Parkhead, but the allure of Saudi Arabia’s project has proven irresistible.
Celtic’s Transfer Strategy: Reinventing the Attack
With Jota’s exit imminent, Rodgers is acting swiftly. Australian winger Marco Tilio (21) has already joined from Melbourne City on a five-year deal, citing the club’s legacy with Aussie stars like Aaron Mooy as a key factor.
Tilio’s pace and creativity could soften the blow of Jota’s departure – a calculated gamble by Celtic’s recruitment team.
Rodgers told Betbuzz365: “This squad has tremendous potential, but adding quality is non-negotiable. We’re targeting players who can elevate us domestically and in Europe.” Midfielder Odin Thiago Holm (20) has also arrived, signaling a focus on youth with high resale value.
Saudi Pro League’s Domino Effect
Al-Ittihad aren’t alone in their spending spree. Inter Milan’s Marcelo Brozović is set to join Cristiano Ronaldo at Al-Nassr after a €18m agreement, further highlighting the league’s aggressive approach.
Key Questions for Celtic:
- Can Tilio adapt quickly to Scottish football? His A-League stats (7 goals, 5 assists in 2022/23) suggest promise, but the Premiership’s physicality is a step up.
- Who replaces Jota’s star power? Rodgers may need another marquee signing to appease fans.
- Champions League readiness? With group-stage football secured, depth is critical.
Betbuzz365 Verdict: A Pivotal Summer for Celtic
While Jota’s sale funds reinforcements, Rodgers faces pressure to maintain dominance in Scotland and compete abroad. The Saudi Pro League’s rise is reshaping the market, forcing clubs like Celtic to rethink their strategies.
Stay tuned to Betbuzz365 for real-time updates on this transfer saga and expert analysis on how Celtic’s rebuild unfolds.
