“I don’t believe I can tolerate his poor performance any longer. I’ve given him ample time to prove himself, but he continues to let down both the club and the team.”

Arsenal and Celtic are reportedly engaged in discussions over a potential transfer that could see Kieran Tierney return to the Scottish champions. The left-back, whose contract at Arsenal will not be renewed, is set to depart the club as a free agent next summer. However, Celtic is exploring the possibility of accelerating the transfer, with all parties showing a willingness to reach an agreement.

Tierney, now 27, recently made his first appearance for Arsenal in 18 months during their League Cup victory over Crystal Palace. Before that, he spent the previous season on loan at Real Sociedad, where he made 26 appearances.

Despite showing promise, Tierney has struggled to secure a regular place in Arsenal’s first team under Mikel Arteta, mainly due to recurring injuries. Since joining the Gunners in a £25 million move from Celtic in 2019, his time at the club has been marked by both potential and setbacks, with fitness issues consistently hampering his progress.

During his time at Celtic, Tierney was regarded as one of Scotland’s most talented players, helping the club clinch eight major trophies. His exceptional performances earned him the PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year award for three consecutive seasons between 2016 and 2018.

Celtic’s interest in bringing Tierney back comes as they enjoy a commanding lead in the Scottish Premiership, holding an 11-point advantage despite a recent loss to Rangers.

The club is also in a strong position to secure Champions League qualification, with critical fixtures against Young Boys at Celtic Park and Aston Villa on the horizon. Manager Brendan Rodgers views Tierney as a vital defensive reinforcement as Celtic pursues success in domestic and European competitions.

Renowned transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that negotiations between Arsenal and Celtic are ongoing. Tierney, a product of Celtic’s academy, is reportedly eager to return to his boyhood club, where he initially rose to prominence. Fans are optimistic that his return could strengthen the team’s dominance in Scotland and improve their chances in European tournaments.

If the transfer is finalized, it would mark a significant homecoming for Tierney, offering him an opportunity to revitalize his career while contributing to Celtic’s ambitions under Rodgers. Both clubs appear hopeful of reaching an agreement in the near future.