Arsenal and West Ham Agree on Transfer Terms, But Tierney Eyes Return to Boyhood Club
Arsenal defender Kieran Tierney appears to be closing the chapter on his time in north London, with reports suggesting that the Scotland international is prioritizing a return to his former club, Celtic.
According to sources, Arsenal and West Ham United have reached an agreement in principle over a potential transfer for the 27-year-old left-back. However, Tierney has reportedly made it clear that his preference lies in rejoining Celtic, the club where he began his professional career.
In recent seasons, Tierney has struggled with injuries and seen his role diminish at Arsenal. Last month, The Athletic’s David Ornstein revealed that Tierney is expected to leave the Gunners by the summer of 2024. Arsenal opted not to activate a clause to extend his contract, which is set to expire in June, leaving the player free to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with non-English clubs as of January 1.
“Tierney’s career in north London is drawing to a close,” Ornstein reported, noting that while Arsenal had the option to extend his stay, they allowed the deadline to pass. Talks are now focused on facilitating either a winter transfer or a pre-contract agreement.
Tierney, who had a loan spell with Real Sociedad during the 2023–24 campaign, has drawn interest from several clubs, including West Ham, Brentford, Leicester, and other foreign teams. Despite the options, his commitment to returning to Celtic remains firm.
Journalist Graeme Bailey of Hammers News reported that while West Ham had hoped to secure Tierney’s services, they were met with a definitive response. “Tierney wants to rejoin boyhood club Celtic,” Bailey wrote, adding that discussions are ongoing to finalize a deal.
As a non-English side, Celtic holds an advantage in negotiating a pre-contract agreement for a summer move, something Arsenal and Tierney reportedly favor to ensure a smooth transition.
With his north London journey nearing its end, Tierney looks set to reunite with Celtic, where he previously made a name for himself before joining Arsenal in 2019. His potential return would mark an emotional homecoming for the defender and a significant boost for the Scottish champions.
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