The rumour mill is spinning, and it’s all about Jota’s potential big-money move to Saudi Arabia. The figures being bandied about are eye-watering – £29m up front with around £6m in add-ons. [Phil Mac] After Benfica take their cut, Celtic stand to make a sizeable profit on our original £6.5m outlay for Jota.
Jota’s departure would undoubtedly leave a void. His pivotal goals and outstanding performances under Ange Postecoglou have been instrumental in our recent successes. But with every departure comes an opportunity, and this windfall could reshape Celtic’s future.
Let’s talk about Kyogo. With 54 goals in 83 appearances and a knack for shining in cup finals, he’s become a key figure for the Hoops. At 28, he’s in his prime, and the temptation to cash in on him this summer is undoubtedly strong. But here’s a thought: what if we buck the trend? What if we use some of the Jota cash to keep Kyogo at Parkhead beyond his natural selling point?
Contracts these days require forward-thinking. Decisions about a player’s future need to be made with at least two years left on their deal. Leave it until there’s only 12 months remaining, and you lose power over the fee and the player’s destination. With the Jota windfall and the opportunity to play Champions League football again, we have a unique opportunity to make Kyogo one of the highest-paid players at the club and secure his services for the long term.
Then there’s the tantalising prospect of a record-breaking signing. We shouldn’t splash the cash just for the sake of it. But if the right player comes along – someone who can elevate the team and get us all off our seats – then why not?
The return of Brendan Rodgers adds another layer of intrigue. His first stint at the helm saw players like Scott Brown and Stuart Armstrong rise to new heights. But his track record in the transfer market was a bit hit and miss. With the Jota money and the recruitment strategy established under Postecoglou, it’s a golden opportunity for Rodgers and the recruitment team to make some shrewd moves.
Celtic are in a strong position. With Champions League money, season ticket sales, and the potential Jota windfall, the club is in great shape going into this season.
So, as we stand on the brink of a new era, let’s embrace the change and look forward to what promises to be an exciting journey. Here’s to a future filled with thrilling matches, silverware, and unforgettable moments at Celtic Park!
