Speculations about Arsenal having their sights aimed at Celtic left-back Kieran Tierney have been circulating for quite some time now. There are rumors claiming that Arsenal is in a prime spot to close this transfer. Nevertheless, Celtic boss Neil Lennon recently brushed off these rumors and speculations saying that the club is in a 'strong position' in keeping Tierney in the squad.
At the start of the summer, Gunners manager Unai Emery has locked his aim into Tierney as his first choice as to play left-back. Based on Lennon's latest comments, it would appear that Arsenal might be on the losing end of this transfer battle.
During the earliest rounds of negotiations, Arsenal put Tierney's valuation at £15 million. The bid was eventually rejected by Celtic, only to be confronted by a subsequent offer of £25 million for the Scottish international player. The second offer, despite being described by many analysts as fair, was also rejected by the Celtic. There were rumors claiming that Arsenal rallied for a final bid, but was also rejected by Celtic.
When asked about the latest status of Tierney, the Celtic manager said, "It's as you were really. I've had no information other than there was two bids that came from Arsenal that were rejected. There has been no further inroads into that really. Our valuation of Kieran wasn't met and it's as simple as that."
Celtic did not publicly disclose their valuation of Tierney. However, from the looks of things, it might be quite steep that even a club like Arsenal cannot reach. Nevertheless, it could also mean that the club is holding strong into the 22-year-old left-back as he has been a key piece in their defense.
Lennon later added that he is confident that Tierney will still don the Celtic uniform after the transfer window closes on August 8. He added that they are looking to lock a long-term deal for Tierney. Aside from Arsenal, no other notable clubs have shown interest towards Tierney.
As for Arsenal, the club is expected to confirm the loan signing of 22-year-old Dani Ceballos from Real Madrid. The club beat Tottenham in closing the deal with Real Madrid.
Arsenal is also poised to close a transfer deal with Saint-Etienne in order to acquire 18-year-old William Saliba for £28 million. The center-back is expected to start for Arsenal once the season starts in less than a month's time.
