Italian transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Celtic are considering a move to sign Tete. The 23-year-old is available having decided against returning to Shakhtar Donetsk owing to the ongoing war in the country. Celtic are one of a few clubs that have been cited as having an interest in the winger.
Speaking to Give Me Sport, Romano confirmed that Celtic’s bumper budget may be a reason they have not been quicker to act in the market, as they are weighing up how best to spend.
“They are still discussing internally. I think when you have money, it’s not easy on the market because they know you have an important budget to sign that player.
“This is why they’re probably taking some time to assess their options and find the best one. Tete could be one of them, but I’m sure he’s not the only one.”
Tete made his breakthrough at Gremio before earning a move to Shakhtar Donetsk. In 108 appearances for the Ukrainian club, Tete made 15 assists while scoring 31 times. Due to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, the Brazilian was loaned to Lyon, where he made 30 appearances, scoring 8 times and assisting 10 times before joining Brendan Rodgers on loan at Leicester City last season.
Celtic have reportedly made overtures to Gremio regarding the signing of Santos Ferreira but Tete is someone that Rodgers clearly rates, given that he signed the player to join him with Leicester. Another ex-Leicester player, Jonny Evans, will not be joining Celtic after it was confirmed that Celtic were not interested in the Irishman.
Rodgers has already added Marco Tilio and Odin Thiago Holm to his side as he looks to strengthen given the losses of Aaron Mooy and Jota. Celtic will be joined by Hyeok-kyu Kwon in Japan as Rodgers’ side take on Yokohama F Marinos and Gamba Osaka. Kwon’s compatriot Hyun-jun Yang is also expected to join up.
