Jota Silva is having a standout season in the Portuguese top flight, so it’s little surprise to hear that several clubs around Europe including Celtic are showing interest in a transfer.
Silva has netted 13 goals and assisted seven more in 32 appearances for Vitoria Guimaraes, earning a reputation that sets him up for a big move this summer.
Celtic’s interest was discussed earlier this week with the Bhoys said to be monitoring his situation alongside Wolves, Brighton, Brentford and Bournemouth.
However, the latest report from Football Scotland journalist Mark Hendry this weekend notes that the Bhoys have been keen on Silva for longer than that.
It’s said that Celtic actually made an enquiry to his club about a potential January transfer move earlier this year but that Vitoria Guimaraes were not keen on parting ways mid-season.
Brendan Rodgers eventually turned his attention to Nicolas Kuhn who ended up arriving in Glasgow from Rapid Vienna for a fee of around £3m.
Jota Silva could now be too expensive for Celtic
Silva’s good form since Celtic’s initial interest has continued. It was eventually noticed by Portugal boss Roberto Martinez who called up him for the current international break.
The forward made his debut off the bench in a 5-2 win over Sweden on Thursday night and he could earn more minutes against Slovenia on Tuesday.
Football Scotland reports that Vitoria now value him in the market at €15m (£12.9m) which could price Celtic out from getting involved this summer.
The Bhoys have strong resources to strengthen the squad but have multiple positions to address and it would be a surprise to see that kind of fee being paid for an incoming player.
Still, it’s a name to keep track of over the coming months, especially since Celtic have already seriously considered him as an option. If Silva’s options dry up then Glasgow may not be the most outlandish destination.