In a twist of events, Kieran Tierney has sealed a pre-contract agreement to return to Celtic in the summer. Despite the Hoops’ interest in securing the defender on loan in January, Tierney will continue at the Emirates until the end of the season. The full-back previously departed Celtic in 2017 for a move to Arsenal after amassing 170 appearances for the Scottish club.
Celtic’s recent financial report highlighted Tierney’s signing of a pre-contract agreement, confirming his arrival in July. The report also detailed other transfer dealings, including the acquisition of Jota and Jeffrey Schlupp’s temporary registration. Additionally, the extension of Kasper Schmeichel’s contract was mentioned alongside the departure of players like Kyogo Furuhashi and Alexander Bernabei.
Tierney’s return to Celtic holds sentimental value as he developed through the club’s youth system and became a mainstay in the first team. Since joining Arsenal, he has showcased his abilities in over 100 matches across various competitions. Despite interest from Celtic in January, Arsenal chose to retain Tierney until the conclusion of the current campaign.
The 27-year-old defender has featured sporadically for Arsenal this season, with limited starts in important fixtures. Celtic, meanwhile, adjusted their squad by allowing Alex Valle to depart for Serie A side Como while securing Jeffrey Schlupp’s services to bolster their left-back options.
Manager Brendan Rodgers expressed his desire for Tierney’s early arrival but acknowledged that the transfer may proceed as planned in the summer. While the situation remains uncertain, Rodgers hinted at the potential for an accelerated move but emphasized the need to respect Arsenal’s decision until the deal is finalized.
