Several clubs are currently interested in signing former Celtic star Jota as the transfer window nears its end. The 25-year-old Portuguese winger has struggled since his move from Celtic to Saudi Arabian club Al Ittihad, and both he and the club seem eager to part ways.
Reports from France indicate that Ligue 1 clubs Rennes and Marseille are among the suitors vying for Jota’s signature. However, his substantial wage packet, reportedly close to £200,000 per week, poses a significant challenge for potential buyers.
A French outlet, SportZone, also mentions that English Premier League club Wolverhampton Wanderers (Wolves) and Portuguese giants Sporting Lisbon are interested in the player. The renowned agent Jorge Mendes, who represents Jota, is said to be orchestrating potential deals.
Jota’s time in Saudi Arabia has been marked by a lack of impact, with the winger making just 22 appearances across all competitions, scoring four goals, and providing one assist. This stands in stark contrast to his successful spell at Celtic, where he became a fan favorite. Jota’s remarkable performances in Scotland, including his crucial role in securing five trophies for the club, have left many wondering if he will return to his former form.
During his two years at Celtic, Jota made 83 appearances, scoring 28 goals and contributing 26 assists. His impressive displays attracted attention from various clubs, making his move to Saudi Arabia a surprise to many. Despite his current struggles, the memories of his time in Glasgow remain fresh among Celtic fans.
Recently, Jota was seen meeting Celtic supporters in Lisbon, where he expressed his love for the club, though he was non-committal about the possibility of a return. His connection to Celtic and the fond memories of his time there continue to resonate with fans.
As the transfer window approaches its final days, it remains to be seen where Jota will end up. The interest from clubs in France, England, and Portugal suggests that he still has significant market value despite his recent struggles in Saudi Arabia. However, any move will likely hinge on whether a club is willing to meet his wage demands or if he is prepared to take a pay cut to reignite his career in Europe.
Jota’s situation serves as a cautionary tale about the challenges that can arise when moving to less competitive leagues. While the financial rewards of playing in Saudi Arabia were undoubtedly significant, the lack of competitive matches and the absence of a passionate fanbase have clearly affected his form. This contrasts sharply with his time at Celtic, where he thrived under the pressure of performing for one of Scotland’s biggest clubs.
The coming days will be crucial for Jota as he seeks to find a new club where he can recapture the form that made him one of Celtic’s most exciting players. Whether he returns to a familiar environment in Portugal or takes on a new challenge in France or England, his next move will be closely watched by football fans across Europe.
Ultimately, Jota’s future remains uncertain, but what is clear is that he needs a fresh start to get his career back on track. The interest from multiple clubs shows that despite his recent difficulties, he is still regarded as a talented player capable of making a significant impact. For Jota, the key will be finding the right environment where he can thrive and once again showcase the abilities that made him a star at Celtic.
As the transfer window edges closer to its conclusion, fans and pundits alike will be keeping a close eye on where Jota ends up. His next move could be crucial in determining whether he can rediscover his best form and fulfill the potential that saw him shine so brightly in Scotland.