Celtic have begun negotiations with Arsenal left-back Kieran Tierney over a return to Parkhead.
Sky Sports News understands that talks have begun between Celtic and Tierney's representatives over a transfer ahead of the signing this summer. The 27-year-old is keen to return to Glasgow.
It is believed Celtic are also exploring a loan for Tierney during this period and he will contact Arsenal to begin negotiations.
The Scottish defender is in the final six months of his contract with the Emirates and has been told by boss Mikel Arteta that he can leave the club.
He missed the first three months of the season with a serious hamstring injury suffered on international duty at Euro 2024 and has made just one appearance for the Gunners in the Carabao Cup since returning to fitness.
When asked about the 27-year-old's departure this month, Arteta said: “All the players here just want to concentrate on influencing the team. If something happens we will assess it.”
There is currently no agreement on a new contract for current Celtic left-back Greg Taylor, who is out of contract in the summer.
Celtic also have Barcelona left-back Alex Valle on a season-long loan.
A number of clubs across Europe are also said to be interested in Tierney, who Arsenal signed from Celtic in 2019 in a deal worth around £25 million.
Rodgers remained tight-lipped about Tierney's move
Celtic boss Brendan Rodgers declined to comment on whether he has any plans to bring Tierney back to Celtic, although he described the Scotland and Arsenal left-back as “one of us”.
“Yes, we will always be connected to top players, especially players who are one of us,” Rodgers said.
“Kieran was instrumental in a very, very successful period when I was here, and his talents then took him on to a new challenge in the Premier League.
“So yes, we will be linked with a lot of names, obviously Kieran, obviously because of his situation. But for us, we won't tell you until we sign a player, once he's signed.”
Why a Celtic return could tempt Tierney
Tierney made over 170 appearances for Celtic and won five Scottish Premiership titles during his time at the club.
Speaking to The Currie Club podcast with Darrell Currie in 2022, Tierney did not rule out a return to Celtic:
“I think when a player who loves the club leaves, there is always talk of 'what if he comes back', and you can't rule anything out,” he said.
“I will always love Celtic, I will always support Celtic, so you never know in football.
When does the winter transfer window open and close?
The 2024 winter transfer window for English and Scottish league clubs officially starts on Wednesday, January 1.
Transfer Deadline Day actually falls on Monday 3 February 2025. The UK window closes at 11pm UK time.
Transfer Deadline Day for most major European leagues – including France, Germany, Italy, Spain and Scotland – is also Monday, February 3, 2025.
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