As the summer transfer window unfolds, behind the scenes at Celtic Park, the strategy of Brendan Rodgers and the recruitment team has been thrown a curveball, calling for a prompt reshuffle of their plans.

Phil Mac has reported that the Hoops had NOT initially planned to lose star winger Jota this summer.

However, a stunning offer from a Saudi club has changed the narrative dramatically. The Portuguese maestro, who had become a talismanic figure among the support, was not actively seeking a move away and Celtic had envisioned him playing a crucial part in their plans for another season.

The magnitude of the offer made for Jota is simply too significant to ignore. This unexpected windfall does create a fresh dimension to the transfer strategy, with the additional funds now readily available to Rodgers and the recruitment team. While the loss of Jota may have caught the club off guard, the extra financial boost will provide an opportunity to bring in quality reinforcements.

On the other hand, Celtic had factored in a potential departure of Liel Abada. The Israeli winger’s exit had been worked into the club’s summer blueprint, with contingencies in place to fill the void. Marco Tilio, the promising Australian midfielder, has been brought in to fill that particular vacuum.

Tilio, a skilled winger with great pace and ball control, is seen as a suitable replacement for Abada. His potential arrival this summer would help soften the blow of losing two key wingers and ensure Celtic retains its attacking threat. But there could be a change of heart on Liel if Jota is the one that move on.

While the unexpected turn of events has certainly made the start of Brendan Rodgers’ tenure interesting, it has also presented an opportunity for Celtic to display their transfer acumen.