Celtic have confirmed the signing of Paulo Bernardo on a permanent basis, securing the midfielder on a five-year deal that extends his stay at the club until 2029.
Bernardo joined the Hoops on loan from Benfica in the summer of 2023, and his performances last season had done enough to convince Brendan Rodgers he was worth keeping around.
🔙 Bernardo is BACK for good!
Paulo Bernardo joins #CelticFC on a five-year deal – subject to international clearance ✍️
Welcome home, Paulo! 💚🇵🇹#CelticFC🍀
— Celtic Football Club (@CelticFC) August 1, 2024
Last season, Bernardo featured in 33 games across all competitions, netting four goals and providing three assists. As a rotational player, he consistently delivered when called upon, providing Celtic with much-needed depth and reliability. His knack for stepping up in crucial moments was evident, particularly in the Glasgow Derbies where he registered both a goal and an assist.
Bernardo’s impact was also felt in the cup final, where his powerful shot was parried by Rangers’ goalkeeper Jack Butland, allowing Adam Idah to slot home the rebound to win the final.
With Matt O’Riley’s future the focus of much speculation, Celtic need to make sure they’re prepared for the season ahead if someone does meet the valuation placed on Matt. However, if O’Riley does go, we will need another midfielder through the door.
Bernardo coming in is a good bit of business, especially with Celtic managing to negotiate the fee down from around £6m to £3.5m plus add-ons, Celtsarehere understands.
