NEIL LENNON has revealed he will have crucial heart-to-heart talks with Kieran Tierney.
The Celtic fans’ favourite has, of course, been caught up in the £25million transfer saga over the past month with the Hoops rejecting what they deem unrealistic offers from the London club.
The persistent Gunners, who had their initial derisory submission of £15million dismissed out of hand, have now met the apparent asking price, but the figure will only be reached with a series of add-ons, a financial problem CQN flagged up a MONTH ago.
Tierney has made no comments as the situation has publicly unfolded, but the Hoops boss is aware such speculation could have an adverse effect on the 22-year-old Scotland international defender.
The Irishman admitted the club will not be able to relax and nor will the player until the transfer window officially closes on September 2.
Unai Emery’s side, who were reported to only be prepared to put down an initial sum of £18million for the player, have now sated they will look for an alternative.
Now Lennon is left with the task of of preparing Tierney, wo is under contract until 2023, for the rigours of a vital campaign ahead.
The Parkhead boss, speaking to the Daily Record, said: “The deal, as far as I’m aware, is not happening. We are delighted about that and it’s just a question of appeasing his mind now.
“As far as I am aware, it is finished. I don’t know if Arsenal are going to meet our valuation. So, it is basically as you were.
“That may be difficult for Kieran to get his head around – or he comes back to the fold and gets on with things.
“I’ll have to speak to him and I’m sure the club will, too. But it may rumble on as well, I don’t know.
“Until the window closes, we can’t relax and I’m sure Kieran can’t, either.”
* DON’T miss the unbeatable match report from Celtic v Nomme Kalju tonight – only in your champion CQN.
