Kieran Tierney has been announced as Arsenal’s first signing on transfer deadline day, with the arrival of David Luiz expected to follow immediately.
The Scotland international has signed a five-year deal to move to the Emirates Stadium from Celtic, where he made his breakthrough four years ago and made 170 appearances in a 12-year career with his childhood club.
But after being identified early in the summer as one of Arsenal’s top transfer priorities, the Gunners finally wrapped up the signing of the 22-year-old, with confirmation coming 10 minutes before the 5pm deadline.
“I’m a Celtic boy, born and raised,” Tierney said upon his unveiling. “Joined my boyhood club, came up through the ranks and earned my place. Now, I’ve come to London and I want to make some noise.”
Arsenal manager Unai Emery said: “We’re delighted Kieran is joining us. He’s a very talented player who will continue to improve. He increases our options defensively and I look forward to him joining our group.”
Arsenal also quickly confirmed that Tierney will slot straight into the No 3 shirt, worn by names such as Ashley Cole, Bacary Sagna and Kieran Tierney in recent times and past greats including Tony Adams – before he switched to his famous No 5 – Nigel Winterburn, Kenny Sansom and David O’Leary.
