Harry Diamond
Arsenal are still ‘optimistic’ of landing Celtic full-back Kieran Tierney despite having an opening bid of £15m rejected by the Scottish champions.
Unai Emery has identified the 22-year-old as a key target as he looks to strengthen at left-back, tabling an opening offer as he bids to bring the Scotland international to the Premier League.
Despite seeing their initial offer rejected, the BBC are reporting that Arsenal remain ‘optimistic’ a deal can be completed, believing personal terms should not be a problem once a fee has been agreed.
As reported elsewhere Arsenal have had an opening bid of £15m for Celtic left-back Kieran Tierney rejected – but there is optimism an agreement will be reached between the clubs, while personal terms for the 22-year-old Scotland international shouldn’t be a problem #AFC #CelticFC
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 22, 2019
Former Arsenal and Celtic forward John Hartson was critical of the North London side’s opening bid, labelling the offer as ’embarrassing’.
Arsenal are believed to be willing to offer fringe players such as Carl Jenkinson and Emile Smith Rowe in order to sweeten the deal, however, Hartson believes the club’s bid opening bid was derisory for a player of Tierney’s ability.
Unai Emery is reported to have a budget of around just £40m this summer as he bids to strengthen his squad, with the Spaniard restricted in the transfer market after Arsenal’s failure to secure Champions League football for a third consecutive season.
See also – Five players ready for a move to a top six club this summer
https://twitter.com/DF_Arsenal/status/1142767323591393282