Arsenal defender Kieran Tierney could be set for a sensational return to Celtic in the January transfer window.
The 27-year-old, who is yet to feature in the Premier League this season, has been sidelined since suffering an injury while representing Scotland at Euro 2024.
Tierney’s standing at Arsenal has diminished in recent years, and with just two years remaining on his contract, his time at the Emirates appears to be nearing an end.
Reports suggest that the Gunners are ready to part ways with the left-back, paving the way for a potential reunion with his boyhood club.
According to talkSPORT, Arsenal have informed Tierney he is free to leave north London when the January transfer window opens. Celtic are reportedly eager to bring him back to Parkhead and are closely monitoring his situation in preparation for a possible move.
Tierney enjoyed great success during his first spell with Celtic, making over 100 league appearances before securing a £25 million transfer to Arsenal in the summer of 2019.
He remains a fan favourite in Glasgow, and his return would likely be met with widespread enthusiasm among supporters.
Speculation about a move has intensified following Tierney’s recent interaction with Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers.
Both were spotted deep in conversation at a charity event in London last week, attending the Celtic Foundation’s annual gala. Their encounter has only fuelled rumours of a potential reunion at Parkhead.
Rodgers, who previously managed Tierney during his first spell at Celtic, has made no secret of his admiration for the player. However, the manager has also acknowledged that finances could complicate any potential transfer.
“When I spoke to him down the road in the Premier League, every time we met up all we talked about was Celtic,” Rodgers said last year.
“He’s a Celtic man, but he’s at a fantastic club in Arsenal. You can just never say never in football. Who knows what might happen?
“I’m pretty sure we wouldn’t be able to pay the huge salary he’s on. However, one can never tell. Kieran has an incredible history with the club. He was a massive part of my time here, so there will always be that link. You never know.”
While Tierney’s return to Celtic is far from confirmed, the circumstances surrounding his Arsenal career suggest a move could be on the cards.
A return to the Scottish champions would not only reignite Tierney’s career but also give Celtic a boost as they chase domestic and European success.