Sources have informed Football Insider that Paulo Bernardo is on the verge of sealing a permanent return to Celtic this summer.
Details of the deal are currently being finalized, with Celtic having agreed to a £3.5million transfer fee with Benfica.
The 22-year-old winger has already agreed to personal terms and all parties are expected to reach a final agreement this week.
Having impressed during a loan spell under Brendan Rodgers last season, Bernardo became a top priority for Celtic in the transfer market.
The club is eager to secure the deal before the season opener on 3 August.
Having come through the ranks at Benfica, Bernardo made his first-team debut in 2018, going on to make 26 appearances for the club.
His successful loan spell at Parkhead saw him contribute four goals and three assists in 33 games, helping Celtic to secure victories in both the league and the Scottish Cup.
The winger’s return was highly anticipated by the club, with his absence leaving a noticeable gap in the team following the end of his loan.
After extensive negotiations, Celtic were able to secure Bernardo for a transfer fee below Benfica’s initial demand of £6million.
Once the deal is finalized, Bernardo will head to Glasgow to rejoin his former team and undergo a medical before the move is officially announced.
