According to an Italian journalist, Aurelio Capaldi as cited by the Express, Napoli are currently solely focused on getting a deal for Colombian star James Rodriguez. This should come as a good piece of news for Arsenal as they are pursuing a move for Celtic’s left back Kieran Tierney and Napoli were said to be rivalling them.
The report also adds that Napoli’s pursuit of Rodriguez could see them end their interest in Tierney. The reason isn’t mentioned, but it seems to us that the Italian heavyweights can afford only one of the two this summer.
Arsenal’s recent bid of £17.5m was rejected, and Celtic are holding on to a price of £25m for the Scottish full-back. The defender is considered as a priority target for Unai Emery this summer, but Arsenal are taking their time in matching Celtic’s asking price.
Is Tierney worth signing?
The Scottish fullback has been quite easily the best fullback in the Scottish Premiership in the last few seasons, and he has shown enough potential for most to believe that he can thrive in the Premier League. Even last summer, he was wanted by Everton, but they didn’t meet his asking price. The Toffees instead went on to sign Lucas Digne.
Tierney still has his contract at the club until 2023, so it is understandable why Celtic aren’t budging from their demand. The 22-year-old is known as a tough tackling fullback, and his intensity and commitment are there for everyone to see.
He is equally impressive while going forward and we think that he will be an ideal long term signing for Arsenal. The fullback has provided an impressive 25 assists in 97 Premiership appearances so far, and he played in 40 games last season in all competitions even though he suffered from a recurring hip problem.
Is he worth £25m?
With the kind of money which is being thrown around in this transfer window, we think that this is more than a reasonable asking price from Celtic. The defender is still just 22, and his best years are probably yet to come. At this young age, he has already managed to get ample experience while playing for Celtic as he became a regular in the team since he was 18.
The Scottish international even has Champions League experience under his belt, and he would be a decent signing for £25m. Recently Manchester United signed Aaron Wan Bissaka for £50m who had just one good season in the Premier League, so Tierney is definitely worth going after.
