Arsenal left back Kieran Tierney is 'really open' to leaving the Emirates this summer even if they win the Premier League.
The Gunners are in pole position for the league title, having calved out a five-point lead over reigning champions Manchester City.
However, Tierney is allegedly willing to leave the club in search of regular first team football, after slipping down the pecking in north London.
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The 25-year-old has had to play second fiddle to new signing Oleksandr Zinchenko this campaign, having managed just four starts in the league all term.
Indeed, Mikel Arteta is thought to favour Zinchenko's ability to play as an extra midfielder when Arsenal attack, whilst Tierney is a more traditional full-back.
Newcastle United have emerged as frontrunners to sign the Scotsman, with Eddie Howe said to be in the market for a left back this summer. Whilst the Magpies boss is also thought to have a long-standing interest in the defender.
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However, Arsenal are expected to want to recoup the £25million they paid Celtic for Tierney back in 2019.
Tierney 'open' to Arsenal exit
Respected journalist Chris Wheately reckons Tierney is eager to leave Arsenal regardless of whether they win the league this season or not.
Speaking on the National World Youtube channel, he said: “The Scottish left-back is admired by Newcastle, Eddie Howe wants to sign him, he wanted to sign him when he was at Celtic, but he went to Arsenal instead.
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"Tierney is a player who is really open to leaving the club this summer because he’s not had enough game time. He’s on course to win the league with Arsenal as things stand, but I don’t think that will affect his decision too much because he wants to be the number one left-back wherever he plays,” added Wheately.
Featured Image Credit: PA ImagesTopics: Kieran Tierney, Arsenal, Mikel Arteta, Premier League, Football, Transfers, Newcastle United