Kieran Tierney rejects Premier League interest to pursue a return to Celtic, his boyhood club, in what could be an emotional homecoming for the Arsenal defender.
Kieran Tierney, the 27-year-old Arsenal defender and Scotland international, appears to be on the brink of a sentimental return to Celtic, having reportedly rejected interest from Premier League clubs Leicester City, Brentford, and West Ham.
Tierney, who has struggled for playing time under Mikel Arteta in recent seasons, appears intent on reuniting with his boyhood club, where he made his professional debut.
Tierney’s time at Arsenal, marked by spells of brilliance and injuries, has seen him make just one appearance this season—against Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup—despite recovering a few months ago from a hamstring injury sustained on international duty over the summer.
The Scot has been on the bench for Arsenal’s last seven Premier League matches, as Arteta has looked to alternative defensive options.
Interest in Tierney has been widespread, with clubs in Italy, Germany, and France also expressing an interest in the versatile left-back. However, Tierney has reportedly “shunned” all other suitors, with his heart set on a move back to Celtic Park.
Talks are underway over a potential pre-contract agreement or a move in the January window, with Tierney’s Arsenal contract expiring this summer.
Arsenal will not take up their option to extend his deal by a further year, marking the end of the road for his time in London.
Tierney, purchased by Arsenal in 2019 for £25 million, has made 125 appearances for the north London club and is a firm favourite with the fans who will sad to see him go.
However, with defensive injuries forcing Arteta to rethink his options, Tierney remains a part of the matchday squad for Arsenal’s upcoming clash with Brighton, despite his likely departure.
According to the Scottish Daily Mail, Celtic’s defensive situation could accelerate Tierney’s return.
Current left-backs Greg Taylor and Alex Valle have uncertain futures, with Taylor’s contract expiring this summer and Valle midway through a loan from Barcelona. Celtic may move quickly to secure Tierney in January, especially after their recent 3-0 derby loss to Rangers, which has heightened calls for reinforcements.
While Arsenal would benefit from savings on the remainder of Tierney’s salary if he were to move in this window, the player himself is reportedly prepared to forgo up to £3 million to facilitate the transfer.
Tierney currently earns £5.72m-a-year with Arsenal (£110k-per-week).
Arteta, when asked about potential January departures, stated, “All the players that are here want to focus on performing and impacting the team, and if something happens there, then we will assess it.”
For Tierney, however, the path back to Glasgow seems increasingly clear, as both player and club appear eager to reignite a partnership that began in the Celtic youth ranks.