Arsenal Star ‘On the Verge’ of Agreeing Deal to Return to Former Club – Report | OneFootball

Kieran Tierney: A Celtic Homecoming in the Making?

Kieran Tierney’s potential return to Celtic after five-and-a-half years with Arsenal marks a significant move in the transfer window. Currently, the 27-year-old Arsenal defender is in discussions about a pre-contract agreement that could see him returning to Glasgow by summer. Sky Sports reports that Celtic might also seek a loan deal for Tierney for the remainder of the season, especially if they make it to the Champions League knockout stages.

Tierney’s situation at Arsenal has been under scrutiny, particularly with his limited appearances post-injury and Arsenal’s readiness to let him go. Mikel Arteta, Arsenal’s manager, has expressed openness to changes, suggesting that the club’s focus remains on players who impact the team directly. “All the players that are here just want to focus on impacting the team. If something happens, we will assess it,” Arteta stated, highlighting the fluid nature of transfer decisions.

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Implications for Celtic and Arsenal

Celtic’s interest in Tierney isn’t just a nostalgic move; it’s a strategic one. With current left-back Greg Taylor’s contract expiring and no new deal on the horizon, Tierney could provide much-needed stability and experience to the squad. Furthermore, his return would be a significant boost for Celtic fans, reconnecting with a player deeply embedded in the club’s recent history and successes.

On the other hand, Arsenal’s decision to potentially offload Tierney could be seen as a shift towards refreshing their squad, possibly to accommodate new talents or to recalibrate the team dynamics following Tierney’s long-term injury.

Tierney’s Deep Roots at Celtic

Tierney’s bond with Celtic is well-documented. Having made over 170 appearances and securing five Scottish Premiership titles, his affection for the club remains strong. In a 2022 interview on The Currie Club podcast, Tierney expressed his ongoing love for Celtic, leaving the door open for a return: “I’m always going to love Celtic, I’m always going to support Celtic, so you never know in football,” he shared, hinting at the emotional pull that could influence his decision.

Photo: IMAGO

What This Means for Celtic’s Strategy

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has been coy about the potential transfer, emphasizing the club’s policy of announcing signings only once they are confirmed. However, his previous comments about Tierney being “one of us” underscore the personal connection and the high regard in which he is held. Rodgers, who witnessed Tierney’s rise during his earlier tenure at Celtic, understands the value of bringing back a player not just skilled on the field but also cherished by the community.

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As an Arsenal supporter, watching Tierney’s journey from his early days at Celtic to his time in North London has been a mix of admiration and frustration. His initial impact was promising; his resilience and drive epitomized the Arsenal spirit. However, his recent injury woes and the subsequent lack of regular first-team action have been disheartening.

The possibility of Tierney returning to Celtic feels like a natural move for him personally. It’s clear his heart still lies in Glasgow. For Arsenal, while his departure might be a loss on an emotional level, it could pragmatically be the best outcome for all involved, allowing the club to invest in new talents who can stay fit and contribute consistently. Yet, as fans, we can’t help but feel a sense of loss, reminiscent of watching a homegrown talent move away, knowing his potential was never fully realized at Emirates Stadium.

In conclusion, Tierney’s potential move back to Celtic could be a poignant chapter for the player and both clubs involved. As the January window progresses, all eyes will be on how this transfer saga unfolds, marking yet another fascinating story in the world of football transfers.