**_Arsenal defender Kieran Tierney is set to leave the club either in January or next summer at the latest, according to the reliable David Ornstein._**
The 27-year-old's contract with the Gunners expires in June, although the club had an option to extend by a further 12 months.
[**_Ornstein_**](https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6004384/2024/12/18/kieran-tierney-arsenal-contract/) now claims that Arsenal have already decided not to activate this possibility, which means Tierney will leave in the summer, or possibly already in January if a permanent move could be agreed.
There is interest from other English clubs and a potential return to Celtic would appeal to the player.
**_UPDATE:_**
**_[The Scottish SunSport](https://www.thescottishsun.co.uk/sport/14034051/celtic-kieran-tierney-return-arsenal-transfer/)_** reports that Celtic are preparing an attempt to bring their former fan favourite back to Glasgow.
The Hoops are said to be considering an initial loan move for Tierney, with a view to make the deal permanent in the summer for free.
If that's not a possible outcome, then Celtic could try to secure a pre-contract agreement, meaning Tierney would return to the club ahead of the 2025/26 season.
There is an expectation that other clubs also will be in the running for the Scotland international's signature, but it is understood Celtic are currently leading the race.