Arsenal is reportedly in advanced negotiations with Celtic over a potential January transfer that could see Kieran Tierney return to his former club.
The Scottish defender, who has struggled for game time at Arsenal in recent years, is believed to be open to the move.
Tierney’s current contract with the Gunners is set to expire this summer, but Celtic is eager to bring him back earlier to reinforce their squad for the ongoing season.
The 27-year-old recently made a rare appearance for Arsenal during their League Cup win over Crystal Palace, marking his first game for the club in 18 months.
His time at Arsenal has been plagued by injuries, as well as a loan spell at Real Sociedad, where he played 26 matches but failed to secure a permanent transfer.
Since joining Arsenal from Celtic in 2019 for a reported fee of £25 million, Tierney has shown flashes of brilliance but has been hampered by recurring fitness issues, limiting his impact under Mikel Arteta.
For Celtic, Tierney’s potential return represents a homecoming for one of their most successful academy graduates.
During his initial spell at the club, he helped secure eight major trophies and earned the PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year award three years in a row between 2016 and 2018.
Manager Brendan Rodgers views Tierney as a vital addition to strengthen his defense as the club aims to maintain its dominant position at the top of the Scottish Premiership and make an impact in Europe.
Currently, Celtic holds an 11-point lead in the Scottish Premiership, but a recent defeat to rivals Rangers has highlighted the need for reinforcements.
With important fixtures ahead, including clashes against Young Boys in the Champions League and Aston Villa in the Europa Conference League, Rodgers believes Tierney’s experience and leadership could make a significant difference.
Renowned transfer expert Fabrizio Romano has confirmed ongoing talks between Arsenal and Celtic, with all parties reportedly optimistic about reaching an agreement.
Tierney is said to be enthusiastic about returning to Celtic Park, where his professional career began.
The deal would offer Arsenal a financial boost, allowing them to reinvest in their squad, while Celtic would gain a proven defender with both domestic and European experience.
For Tierney, it represents a chance to revive his career and play a crucial role in Celtic’s ambitions.
Fans of the Scottish champions are eagerly anticipating the official announcement, hopeful of seeing their former star in green and white once again.
If finalized, this transfer would mark a poignant chapter in Tierney’s career, bringing him full circle.
It would also highlight Celtic’s ambition to excel not only in Scotland but also on the European stage.
