Celtic sign Paulo Bernardo on permanent deal as midfielder returns

Celtic have confirmed the signing of Paulo Bernardo on a permanent deal.

The Portuguese midfielder has put pen to paper on a five-year-deal at the Scottish champions.

He joins from Benfica after spending last season on loan at Parkhead and helping the club to a league and cup double.

The 22-year-old becomes Celtic’s first outfield signing of the summer and third overall following the arrivals of goalkeepers Kasper Schmeichel and Viljami Sinisalo.

His arrival comes just days before they begin their defence of the title at home to Kilmarnock as the Premiership returns this weekend.

Last season Bernardo made 33 appearances and scored four goals, including a memorable strike in the New Year Old Firm derby in January.

He also helped them win the Scottish Cup when his effort was initially saved by Rangers goalkeeper Jack Butland before being turned into the net by Adam Idah.

Speaking to Celtic TV he said: “It’s amazing for me and it’s a big step in my career.

“I really enjoyed last season when we won the championship and the cup, so it was great for me – my first two titles in my career, too.

“I love the club, I love the fans and I love the city, too, so it’s very, very nice to be here again.

“I love the atmosphere at Celtic Park and away in all the games. Celtic is a big, big club. The fans feed us in the game so we can score one more goal or win the game in the last minute.

“They show that they love the club and I think they really like me too, so I love them.

“I trained this pre-season with Benfica so I’m fit, I did my own work at home to be even fitter so I’m ready. I want to become champion again and I think we can do that again, and I’m very excited to be here.”

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers said: “I am delighted that we have secured Paulo on this long-term contract.

“Paulo had a real desire to join us permanently, having had a great experience already at Celtic, and from our side we wanted to bring a quality player who has already made such an important contribution to the club.

“Paulo made a great impact for us at some real pivotal moments, delivering for us when he needed to for the team and we are sure that he can bring that same determination, ability and quality to us over the next number of years.

“He has been a popular figure in the dressing-room and I know the rest of the players will welcome him back warmly.”