Wolves tipped to land £25m former Celtic hero keen to end Saudi 'nightmare'

The Old Gold have reportedly held initial talks over the signing of Jota from Al-Ittihad, just over a year on from his £25 million Celtic departure.

Jota, who contributed an impressive 28 goals and 26 goals in 83 appearances for the Bhoys, endured a difficult first season in Saudi Arabia. The former Portugal Under-21 international signed for Al-Ittihad with the promise of becoming a key player, but his experience very quickly spiralled into a disaster.

Al-Ittihad were caught up in a registration nightmare as they signed too many foreign players to fulfil the Saudi Pro League regulations. Jota was ultimately the man sacrificed, reducing his involvement at the club significantly. The 25-year-old was eventually registered for the second half of the campaign but the damage was done from a a torrid first few months.

That, at least, is what’s being reported by French publication Sports Zone. It’s claimed Al-Ittihad and Jota want to part ways this summer, with Wolves and Sporting Lisbon displaying an interest. Super agent Jorge Mendes, who has a great rapport with Wolves’ hierarchy, is said to be keen on helping his client secure a loan move to Molineux.

Mendes has been involved in several key transfers for Wanderers over the years. The likes of Ruben Neves, Diogo Jota, Matheus Nunes and Pedro Neto have joined in the past through the help of the Portuguese agent.

Jota, competing with the likes of Karim Benzema, Igor Coronado, Romarinho and Abderrazak Hamdallah for game time, scored four goals in 16 league appearances throughout 2023/24.