Former Scotland manager Alex McLeish has delivered his verdict on Celtic signing Jota on a permanent basis. 

The lowdown: Deal done

The Hoops confirmed the capture of the 23-year-old winger after triggering a £6.5m purchase option as part of the deal which saw him spend last season on loan at Parkhead.

Signed from Benfica on a five-year contract, the Portuguese winger played a key part in Ange Postecoglou's double-winning side in 2021/22 and looks certain to enjoy an integral role moving forwards.

Upon hearing the news, one invested onlooker has had his say on what the transfer means for the Premiership champions...

The latest: 'More to come...'

Speaking to Football Insider, McLeish claimed that Jota still has a lot more to offer to the Bhoys and will almost certainly justify his price tag over time.

The Sky Sports pundit said: “It does surprise me that he has been let go [by Benfica]. When I say let go, I don’t mean let go, it was £6million. He showed so much flair and technical ability last year, he was on a different level.

“There is obviously more to come and that could be a fantastic investment for Celtic. He could be a real target for someone in the future. Having won the league last year and him playing a major role, it’s a great signing by Celtic.

“It’s a cracking agreement for Benfica as well.”

The verdict: Great deal for Celtic

Although Celtic have undoubtedly landed a bargain, the reported 30% sell-on clause installed into the deal could prove to be a masterstroke from Benfica over time.

Currently valued at a rising £6.75m (Transfermarkt), another campaign even close to the exploits of his 27 direct goal involvements in 40 appearances last term would almost inevitably bring about transfer interest from across Europe.

That said, with Champions League football back on the agenda at Celtic Park and potentially more arrivals such as Vinicius Souza, first and foremost there is no reason why the Scottish champions cannot retain their most prized assets, including Jota, in the future.