Jota: Celtic title winner seals permanent transfer from Benfica after loan spell

Jota has become a favourite with the Celtic support

Jota says Champions League football was a key factor in his "easy decision" to return to Celtic on a five-year deal.

The Portuguese winger, 23, has moved from Benfica for an undisclosed fee after contributing 13 goals and 14 assists on loan in Glasgow last season.

Ange Postecoglou's side won the Scottish Premiership and League Cup and go directly into the Champions League group stage.

"I'm really happy staying here and can't wait to develop more," said Jota.

"The experience I had last season was amazing, so it was an easy choice to make.

"Champions League is probably the best club competition in the world. Of course it's always a trigger for a player to come and I am no exception.

"It is something that I really like and everyone kept saying me, 'Jota, it is something special so you better stay at Celtic.'"

Jota was loaned to Real Valladolid for the 2020-21 season and has been capped up to Under-21 level by his country.

He quickly became a fans' favourite at Celtic last term and says he "fell in love" with the club.

"There is no moment when you just blink and think, 'yes, now I am going to stay.' It was just natural," he added.

"During the week, the months, the year, I felt, 'Okay, I should stay here' and I am really happy.

"I promise I will fight every day to honour the colours of the club and fight for things. I want to achieve a lot - that's why I'm here."

On Thursday, Celtic announced the signing of Argentine full-back Alexandro Bernabei, while the Scottish champions have also arranged a permanent deal for central defender Cameron Carter-Vickers and signed goalkeeper Benjamin Siegrist.

Find all the latest football transfers on our dedicated page.

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