Former Celtic winger Jota is reportedly finally nearing a transfer exit from Al-Ittihad.

The 25-year-old is thought to be closing in on a return to Europe after a difficult spell in Saudi Arabia.

Jota moved to the Middle East in a £25m move from Celtic last summer but his game time at Al-Ittihad has been limited.

The Portuguese player found himself unregistered at the club for a period ruling him out of league action for Ittihad.

Now, it's claimed Jota is ready to leave the Saudi club with interest from Ligue 1.

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Stade Rennais are thought to be keen on a swoop for Jota with discussions between the two clubs underway in the hopes of striking a deal.

According to RMC Sport, negotiations between the clubs are well-advanced with talks going well.

It's claimed Jota has rejected a move to another Saudi League club and is demanding he be allowed to sign a release and receive compensation to depart the club.

Jota was excluded from the recent friendly against Al-Qadisiyah as he continues to be frozen out by the club with his future up in the air.