Despite the multitude of names that have been tipped to join Celtic this summer, the most pressing issue remains that of a player who has already adorned the famous green and white Hoops, with last season's loanee, Jota, still yet to complete a much anticipated permanent switch to the Scottish champions.

However, according to the latest reports, the end to that long-running saga could now be in sight...

What's the word?

As per journalist Mark Hendry, it looks as if the 23-year-old's long-term future is set to be resolved sooner rather than later, with it now reportedly a "formality" that the Portuguese starlet will make the permanent move from Benfica: "All I know is it’s very close and has been for a wee while. Believe it’s just a formality at this point. When, not if."

The Lisbon-born ace joined the Old Firm outfit on a season-long loan deal on deadline day last summer, with that move having included an option to buy worth a reported £6.5m.

The Glasgow giants have already wrapped one notable piece of business so far in the current window, bringing in fellow loanee Cameron Carter-Vickers in a £10m permanent swoop from Tottenham Hotspur.

Ange's best piece of business

Title-winning manager Ange Postecoglou has already proven himself an astute operator in the transfer market in his Hoops tenure thus far, although managing to bring in the former Portugal U21 international would no doubt be his best piece of business yet and a real statement of intent heading into the new season.

Having been something of an unknown quantity upon his arrival at Parkhead just under a year ago, Jota quickly cemented himself as a real key figure for the Scottish Premiership side, proving instrumental in securing a tenth league triumph of the past 11 seasons.

In a stunning campaign both on a collective and individual basis, the £4.95m-rated gem chipped in with 13 goals and 14 assists in all competitions, proving himself a vital asset both as a goal-getter and a creator.

Dubbed a "terrific player" by BT Sport pundit Owen Hargreaves for his form both domestically and in Europe, the £7.1k-per-week speedster has dazzled with both his trickery and bravery in possession, offering a relentless attacking threat down either flank.

With a return to the Champions League group stages to come for the first time since 2017, the Celtic Park outfit will be in desperate need of their star asset if they are to put up a real fight against Europe's elite, while they are likely to once again face intense competition from bitter rivals Rangers on the domestic front.

In truth, the club simply need the fleet-footed winger in tow if they are to be able to kick on again next term, with it set to be Postecoglou's best transfer deal yet if he can get it over the line.

In other news, Celtic can unearth a new Giakoumakis after submitting bid for "very strong" £2.5m gem