Kierian Tierney with Celtic
Image credit: Getty Images
Scottish champions Celtic are reportedly in pole position to secure the return of left-back Kieran Tierney following confirmation from David Ornstein that Arsenal will not renew the player’s contract.
Tierney’s current deal with Arsenal is set to expire at the end of the season, making him eligible to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with clubs outside England from January 1. Alternatively, a permanent transfer could occur during the January transfer window, with Celtic emerging as one of the frontrunners for his signature.
According to The Scottish SunSport, Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is eager to reunite with Tierney, who began his professional career at Parkhead and won four league titles during his tenure.
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The 27-year-old remains a fan favourite at the Glasgow club, and discussions are reportedly underway to bring him back either through a permanent deal or a loan move, depending on financial considerations, including his wages.
Kierney Tierney
Celtic are interested in signing Kieran Tierney from Arsenal (Image credit: Getty Images)
Arsenal had the option to extend Tierney’s contract by 12 months but decided against triggering the clause. With the deadline now passed, the Scotland international has been informed of the club’s decision, paving the way for his departure.
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Tierney joined Arsenal from Celtic in 2019 and made 125 appearances for the Gunners. However, injuries have plagued his five seasons at the Emirates, limiting his impact. He spent the 2023/24 campaign on loan at Real Sociedad, gaining valuable experience abroad.
In Arsenal’s 3-2 Carabao Cup quarter-final victory over Crystal Palace, Tierney delivered a strong performance before being substituted in the 69th minute due to an injury. He recorded 63 touches, a 91% pass accuracy, and completed nine passes into the final third, sharing the team’s best tally with midfielder Mikel Merino. Defensively, he registered a clearance, an interception, and won all three of his duels.
Despite Tierney’s injury, Arsenal fans celebrated a memorable night as Gabriel Jesus netted a second-half hat-trick to secure the win. Eddie Nketiah added a late goal for Palace after Jean-Philippe Mateta’s early strike, but the Gunners advanced to the semi-finals, maintaining their hopes of lifting silverware this season.
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