Kieran Tierney Celtic January decision made as Arsenal lay out plan, not good news

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Celtic have been clear in their desire to get Kieran Tierney back this month.

The left-back has signed a pre-contract with the Hoops, as confirmed by manager Brendan Rodgers and the club were delighted to land their former player on a free.

Celts were interested in spending to bring the defender in now in a bid to ensure his arrival comes before Monday’s deadline, but certain elements seem to have worked against the Scottish Premiership giants.

We surmised that Arsenal would be looking to keep Tierney until the end of the season after Mikel Arteta named the Scotland cap in his Champions League squad for an unnecessary fixture considering they had already qualified.

And now it has emerged that may well be exactly the case.

• READ MORE: Manchester United expert reveals all about Celtic’s Kieran Tierney loan transfer alternative Tyrell Malacia

Kieran Tierney will stay at Arsenal until end of season

Daily Telegraph journalist Mike McGrath has this evening confirmed that the Gunners DO plan on keeping hold of their player for the next six months.

The report suggests Tierney’s “leadership abilities” has been a key reason for Arteta to prevent Tierney from making his move as soon as possible.

It will be a frustrating issue for manager Rodgers who has clearly wanted to take Tierney in before the next round of the Champions League.

It is a glamour tie for Celts and they will need a strong squad in order to compete.

Tierney’s comeback has been hailed by Chris Sutton and John Hartson who applauded the Scottish Premiership giants for being able to get it done.

It comes after Alex Valle departed Celtic for Como following an agreement between the club and his parent side Barcelona.

Celtic need a left-back back-up with Alex Valle gone

Cesc Fabregas, the Como boss, was seemingly a massive draw for the Spanish youngster.

Valle recently bid a heartfelt farewell to Celtic’s fans for their support throughout his time in Glasgow albeit it was a somewhat short stint.

He took to Instagram to say: “Thank you for giving me the opportunity to join such a big and historic club like Celtic. I’ve made my Champions League debut and I have won the first title of my professional career.

“It was short but I tried to enjoy and give my best every day for the badge and for its amazing fans, massive part of the club. Thanks again for everything.

“Hail Hail,” with a green love heart emoji.