Celtic in race against time to register Paulo Bernardo to play v Rangers, paperwork to be finalised
Celtic are hoping to sign Paulo Bernardo from Benfica in time for the winger to make his debut against Rangers this weekend, according to The Scottish Sun.
The newspaper reported via its online edition on Thursday [31 August] that Bernardo is set to fly into Glasgow and put pen to paper on an initial loan deal at Celtic Park.
With Celtic taking Rangers at Ibrox in the opening Old Firm of the season at midday on Sunday [3 September], the Hoops have a little over 24 hours to register Bernardo if he is to feature.
Have faith
While Rangers have had a huge Champions League tie with PSV to contend with this week – one which ultimately ended in real disappointment – Celtic have had a free week to prepare for the Old Firm while at the same time strengthening their squad.
Two players have already arrived at Celtic Park this week and a third looks to be incoming in time to do battle this weekend.
Whereas the majority of the Gers’ transfer business was done early on, Celtic are leaving most of theirs until late on in the window.
The obvious reaction from Rangers fans will be annoyance at seeing fierce rivals Celtic add to what they already have, but they must retain faith in what Michael Beale has in his ranks.
In a week of sheer disappointment on the back of the heavy loss to PSV, the only way Rangers can lift the mood of the fanbase is to get one over on Celtic and leapfrog their opponents in the Scottish Premiership.
In other Rangers news, Neil Lennon has given his view on what Celtic require to overcome the Light Blues.