Real Sociedad have reached a verbal agreement to sign Arsenal left-back Kieran Tierney on a season-long loan deal, according to football journalist Fabrizio Romano.
The 26-year-old joined the Gunners from Celtic in 2019 and has gone on to represent the club on more than 120 occasions in all competitions. However, he played second fiddle to Oleksandr Zinchenko last season, having managed just six starts during the campaign.
The Scotland international was also down the pecking order during pre-season friendlies. With the addition of versatile defender Jurrien Timber to the squad, it is unlikely that Tierney would start games week in and week out.
Fabrizio Romano broke the news regarding Tierney’s move to Spain with his iconic ‘Here we go’ tweet. He will join the La Liga side on a season-long loan deal, with the Spanish side covering his entire £110,000-a-week wages until June. There is no obligation to buy included in the deal, but the Gunners will receive a loan fee. The journalist tweeted:
“Kieran Tierney to Real Sociedad, here we go! Verbal agreement in place with Arsenal on a loan deal — no buy option clause. Tierney has accepted, and medical being scheduled after clubs exchange all documents. Salary will be covered until June.”
Kieran Tierney to Real Sociedad, here we go! Verbal agreement in place with Arsenal on loan deal — no buy option clause 🚨⚪️🔵 #AFC
Tierney has accepted, medical being scheduled after clubs exchange all documents.
Salary will be covered until June. pic.twitter.com/PhLceN4Sk2
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) August 25, 2023
Arsenal Fever View:
The former Celtic man has been a popular figure among the fans since his arrival. He cemented his place in Arsenal’s backline with some impressive displays, but injuries hindered his development.
This transfer move seems sensible for both the club and the player. Tierney would have the opportunity to start every week and experience Champions League football at Sociedad. He will be determined to establish himself as a key figure at the Spanish club.
It is clear that Mikel Arteta does not consider Tierney in his future plans. Therefore, if he performs well during his loan stint, the club can offload him next summer for a reasonable fee.
Arteta and his men will look to maintain their perfect start to the season with a win against Fulham on Saturday at the Emirates Stadium. Brighton and Manchester City are the only other teams to remain unbeaten after two matches.
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