KIERAN TIERNEY finally ended the £25million transfer saga when he signed for Arsenal this afternoon – FORTY-SEVEN days after CQN reported the London club’s original move for the left-back.
The 22-year-old Scotland international passed a medical and penned a five-year contract to become the most expensive Scottish player in history.
Celtic boss Neil Lennon, speaking to the club website, said: “This is an opportunity Kieran wanted to take and, while we will be sad to see him leave the club, we wish Kieran all the very best for the future.
“Although he is still a young guy, Kieran has given the club so much. He’s a great lad and I’ve really enjoyed working with him. I’m sure he will continue to progress and develop and make a big impact in the English Premiership.
“It has obviously been a long process, but now it has been finalised we can now look ahead and concentrate on continuing to build our own squad and meet the many challenges ahead, domestically and in Europe.”
The club issued a statement after the record-breaking deal was finalised.
HAIL AND FAREWELL…Kieran Tierney in a typical salute to the Celtic fans.
It read: “We did all we could to keep Kieran at Celtic. While the club did not need or wish to sell Kieran, this was an opportunity which Kieran very much wished to pursue and, with the club having received a significant offer, we have agreed to the transfer.
“Kieran has been a big part of the club for a number of years, coming through our Academy structure and becoming a key first team player of real quality.
“He has made a significant contribution to Celtic and we thank him very much for all he has given to the club and, of course, we wish him very well for the future in his career.”
Tierney played only nine games for the Hoops since the turn of the year and missed the Scottish Cup Final win over Hearts at Hampden on May 25 to seal the unprecedented treble treble.
He has not been available for boss Lennon in the pre-season build-up and has sat out the five European ties against FK Sarajevo, Nomme Kalju and last night’s 1-1 first leg third round draw against Cluj in Romania.
The Hoops paid £3million for Belgian Boli Bolingoli from Rapid Vienna to strengthen their options in the No.3 position, but they are also believed to be pursuing an additional player for the wide left defensive berth.
CQN reported earlier today Kilmarnock’s dependable Greg Taylor could be on Lennon’s wanted list before the Scottish transfer window closes on Monday, September 2.
