One of Celtic’s double-winning heroes was keen to relive the Bhoys experience this season with a holiday stop at the New York Celtic Supporters Club on Friday.
Paulo Bernardo spent the week training with Portuguese national team colleagues but has now jetted off to the United States to take in the sights of the Big Apple.
The midfielder made 33 appearances at the club during his loan spell from Benfica and speculation is mounting that Celtic are looking to complete a permanent deal for the talent.
Bernardo signed off with a crucial contribution to the Scottish Cup Final against Rangers when his swerving shot forced Jack Butland to divert the ball into the path of goal-scorer Adam Idah.
That kind of impact adds to the argument he should become a summer addition and it seems Bernardo is keen to continue his association with the Bhoys.
Posting on Facebook, the NYCSC shared that he’d dropped into McHale’s Bar, where the Celtic club is based.
HH. A surprise unexpected visitor a few minutes ago. Paulo Bernardo 🍀🇵🇹 alongside McHale's staff member, Jonathon. 🍀🗽👌🏼
Posted by New York Celtic Supporters Club on Friday, May 31, 2024
Evidence is strong that Paulo Bernardo wants Celtic stay
The drop-in comes amid reports from Portugal this morning that Bernardo is hoping to stay in Scotland for the 2024/25 season.
Portuguese newspaper Record say that he has enjoyed his spell at the Bhoys, life in Glasgow and is eager to sign up for more regular first-team football next term.
For Celtic, it could come down to the kind of fee that Benfica want for the 22-year-old. It’s said that the Bhoys had a buy clause of around £6m included in his loan terms but are now looking to negotiate that down.
That makes sense considering he isn’t quite an established starter under Rodgers. He’s been used in more of a squad and rotation capacity. If he can be delivered for a few million pounds it would be good business, especially since he has the potential to improve further.