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Glasgow Live
Glasgow Live
Sport
Alan Galindo

Jota Celtic transfer exit to Al-Ittihad confirmed as Hoops bank huge fee from Saudi Pro League side

Jota has completed his mega money move to Al-Ittihad from Celtic.

The Hoops attacker is the latest big name to make the move to the Saudi Pro League as he teams up with superstars Karim Benzema and N'Golo Kante at his new club under the watchful eye of countryman Nuno Espirito Santo and his No2 in the shape of one-time Hearts manager Ian Cathro..

The 24-year-old was snapped up two seasons ago by former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou on a season-long loan from Benfica. After quickly impressing and becoming a fans' favourite the Scottish champions made his permanent purchase a priority shelling out £6.5million to retain his services. Just 12 months later he's off for a big money fee that has been reported to be in the similar bracket to that of Kieran Tierney to Arsenal back in 2019 - with his former club entitled to a percentage due to a sell-on agreement.

READ MORE: Ange Postecoglou Tottenham training sneak peek as ex-Celtic boss outlines early priorities

Jota netted 15 goals and provided 12 assists across all competitions last season including a memorable free-kick against Real Madrid in the Champions League that he described at the time as ' one of the best moments of my life'. During his time in Glasgow he also tasted multiple trophy success including a Treble winning campaign last time out.

A Celtic club statement read: "After two seasons with the club, one on loan from Benfica and one on a full contract, Portuguese winger, Jota has left Celtic to join Saudi Arabian club, Al-Ittihad.

"In his time in the Hoops, Jota won two league titles as well as picking up winner’s medals in both the Scottish and League Cups.

"Everyone at Celtic Football Club wishes Jota success in his future career."

Al-Ittihad wrote online: "Ittihad club has officially announced the signing of Portuguese player Jota Filipe from Scottish club nCeltic.

"The term of the contract is three years. The signing took place on Sunday, July 3, in the presence of Mr, Anmar Abdullash Alhailee, the chairman of the Ittihad Club non-profit foundation board and Mr. Ahmad Issam Kaaki, the Vice Chairman of the Board.

"Prior to the signing, the player successfully completed a medical examination at the specialised medical centre in Dubai.

"The chairman of the board expressed his well wishes to the player, hoping for his success in fulfilling the aspirations of the Ittihad's fans and supporters."

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