Fabrizio Romano’s update on Celtic’s transfer priority

Fabrizio Romano is adamant that Celtic are looking to bring in a like-for-like replacement for Jota.

Just as supporters were coming to terms with Ange Postecoglou moving to Spurs news emerged that Al Ittihad wanted to sign the former Benfica winger with a £25m deal quickly agreed.

After two action packed seasons Celtic had lost their Superstar from Portugal on the back of a treble winning season with Jota at the heart of the critical moments in all three competitions, signing off with a goal in the Scottish Cup Final victory alongside the only goal of the semi-final.

Postecoglou wasn’t short of options on the wing, almost always making changes between the 60th and 70th minutes but whenever fit Jota was a starter.

His departure leaves a big hole in the Celtic squad, reviewing the follow up options available to the club’s recruitment team Romano told Give Me Sport:

For sure, they are in the market. Let’s see what will happen because this Jota deal was a big shock and unexpected this summer. But I think for sure they will sign a replacement there. They are looking at some options. Currently, it’s still not clear who is their top target, but for sure, they will sign a player there.

Other than Jota the only other exit from last season’s squad was Aaron Mooy who announced his retirement.

Marco Tilio and Yang and Yang Hyun-jun have been signed during the current transfer window but neither player can be expected to step in and score twice away from home in the Champions League as Jota did.

Romano’s prediction is fairly vague but as the month develops there will be an expectation on Celtic and Rodgers to sign at least one player that appears ready to make a positive impact at Champions League level.