Every Celtic fan has either heard or read about the Kieran Tierney return rumours over the past couple of days. It is believed that Arsenal have not taken up the option to extend his contract by twelve months, meaning that he will be a free agent next summer. There have been suggestions though that the Hoops could be willing to sign him this January itself.
Of course, there would be a certain risk when it comes to any move for Tierney. That is very clear considering his long history of injury problems, which is one of the major reasons why it has not worked out for him at Arsenal even though he was viewed by many as a future captain of the club not too long ago.
Other than that, many would question the thought process behind signing Tierney in January when he looks set to be available as a free agent in the summer. But what if he is available for no transfer fee next month too?
As reported by 67 Hail Hail, journalist Roger Hannah told Clyde 1 Superscoreboard:
"Arsenal have made it clear they aren’t going to take up the option on the last year of his deal. My understanding is that they will let him go in January without a fee."
How Celtic could sign Kieran Tierney for free in January
If Celtic were to sign Tierney, he would immediately be one of the club's best players if not the very best. His quality has never been in doubt. Even at Arsenal, he was shining before being sidelined by injuries and ultimately slipping down the pecking order due to the arrival of others.
Of course, that would be a worry for Celtic as well. Will Tierney remain injury-free at Parkhead? Unfortunately, that is a major question mark.
That being said, if the opportunity to sign someone of Tierney's quality as a free agent was available, Celtic need to take it up. It is a risk worth taking and one that could pay off spectacularly if it works out.