Arsenal have decided not to extend full-back Kieran Tierney’s contract, which is set to expire next summer, as revealed by David Ornstein of the Athletic.
The Scottish star has failed to live up to the expectations at N5 following his move from Celtic back in 2019. Although he made a bright start to his tenure, his five-year spell was plagued by injuries and inconsistent performances.
He was shifted to Real Sociedad on loan last season, where he played well. His experience in Spain could prove to be vital as his time with the Gunners will end soon.
Tierney had a chance to make a comeback when he made his 125th appearance for Arsenal in the Carabao Cup quarter-final win over Crystal Palace last week. However, he has been forced off in the second half owing to another injury.
ARSENAL DECIDES AGAINST EXTENDING TIERNEY’S CONTRACT
As per Ornstein, the North London outfit isn’t interested in activating the one-year extension option in the 27-year-old defender’s contract. They have officially informed the player that he can leave for free as his contract ends next summer.
The journalist stated:
“Arsenal have decided against activating an option to extend Kieran Tierney’s contract by an extra year. This means Tierney will leave the Emirates Stadium by next summer at the latest — when his contract expires — but he could also depart next month.”
🚨 EXCL: Kieran Tierney to leave Arsenal in summer at latest after club decided against using option to extend contract. #AFC deal ends June & date to add 1y gone. 27yo can pre-agree with non-English clubs (or possibly go permanently) in Jan @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/nycJxvN22S
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) December 18, 2024
The deadline day to activate the extension has already passed. Hence, Tierney is now open to negotiating a pre-contract agreement with non-English clubs in January. A permanent transfer next month remains a concrete possibility.
He can also move in the summer if there is a lack of interest. Several Premier League clubs, his former side Celtic, and other European teams will cherish the opportunity to sign the left-back for free.
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Finances will play a huge role in whether the Hoops can sign their former player. The Arsenal star can also demand a bumper payday by running down his contract. Clubs will be careful of not offering big wages due to the player’s injury history.
