Celtic are in the market for reinforcements this window, and Kieran Tierney’s name has cropped up as a potential iron in the fire for Brendan Rodgers.
The Scotland international is set to be a free agent in the summer following Arsenal’s decision not to activate his one-year extension clause.
In light of this revelation, Celtic are exploring both loan and pre-contract avenues for Kieran Tierney as the prospect of an emotional Parkhead return starts to gain traction.
Greg Taylor’s uncertain contract situation has attracted interest from Dinamo Zagreb, while Alex Valle is set to return to Barcelona at the end of his loan spell.
With Tierney a hot topic among the support, Brian McClair has evaluated whether he would be open to completing a comeback story for the ages.
Brian McClair on the reality of Kieran Tierney Celtic return
Speaking to Daily Record, McClair believes Tierney’s next move will come down to a question of happiness and the former Hoops man thinks that could come at Parkhead for the man in question.
He explained: “It’s always a difficult one when you’ve been away and you’re coming back, particularly if you’ve left for a substantial amount of money. I don’t think that Kieran wanted to leave in the first place.
“I think the situation was manifested in the sense that it was suitable for nearly all parties. But if it came down to choice, then I think Kieran would’ve stayed because he’s the type of lad who is a Celtic supporter who, at the time, wanted to spend all of his career at Celtic Park.
“He’s had a few experiences – some good ones and some not so good ones. That will help him in the decision-making on where he might be at his happiest.
“I think that’s something that’s probably at the foremost of his mind. He wants to play football and where would he be happiest? Perhaps that would be back at Celtic Park.”
Regular football has got to be a priority for Kieran Tierney
Tierney made his return for Arsenal against Crystal Palace last month, but only one appearance has fallen his way this campaign after five months on the sideline due to injury.
Fitness issues have dominated recent years for the Lennoxtown graduate, but at 27, he still has plenty of football in his legs as he enters his peak years.
Celtic are keen on a return, and it would be hard to imagine Tierney not having any interest in coming back home. Can it happen? Only time will tell on that front.
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