Kieran Tierney has been linked with a return to Celtic for years, though it has often seemed like more of a dream than a realistic possibility.
Why would the Scottish international leave the glamour of Premier League football to return to the Scottish Premiership? However, recent developments suggest that this long-speculated move might finally be on the horizon.
Reports indicate that Arsenal have decided not to extend Tierney’s contract by an additional year, leaving his current deal set to expire at the end of the season.
This decision paves the way for Tierney to become a free agent next summer, and as early as January, he will be eligible to sign a pre-contract agreement with another club.
With these circumstances aligning, could a return to Celtic Park finally be in the cards for Tierney?
As reported by Football Insider, Tierney is reportedly open to the idea of a return to his boyhood club, and Brendan Rodgers is a known admirer of the player’s abilities.
Kieran Tierney’s thoughts on a Celtic return
The presence of Brendan Rodgers could be a key factor in making this move happen. Rodgers himself has experienced the allure of returning to Celtic after a stint in the Premier League, and he shares a strong working history with Tierney.
During Rodgers’ first spell at Celtic, the pair enjoyed significant success, which might lay the groundwork for a potential reunion.
The current left-back situation at Celtic also adds fuel to the speculation. Greg Taylor has been the first-choice left-back for several seasons, but there is a growing belief that Celtic need to strengthen in that position.
Despite his regular role, Taylor has yet to be offered a contract extension, even with his deal expiring at the end of the season.
Meanwhile, Alex Valle provides cover in the left-back position, but his future at Celtic is also uncertain. The Spaniard is on loan from FC Barcelona until the end of the current campaign, leaving a potential gap to be filled next season.
With Tierney’s contract situation at Arsenal and Celtic’s needs aligning, a return to Glasgow for the Scottish international might finally be more than just wishful thinking. Time will tell if this long-discussed move becomes a reality.