Journalist Ross Gregory has expressed excitement amid Newcastle United transfer links to Kieran Tierney although has concerns over his fitness record.
What’s the latest on Kieran Tierney to NUFC?
While the summer window is still a while away, good clubs will already be planning their moves in the next market and it seems as though Eddie Howe has already got his eye on one key target.
Indeed, as reported by London World, the Magpies want to sign an experienced Premier League left-back soon and the Arsenal man sits right at the top of their shortlist.
The article notes that Howe is a long-term admirer of Tierney and even tried to sign him from Celtic back in 2018 when he was still at Bournemouth.
While speaking about the recent rumours on NUFC Matters, Gregory praised the player but expressed some doubt over his fitness record.
He said: “He’s very injury-prone. That would be my big concern with him.
“Hell of a player. Really, really good left-back. Can play centre-half as well. Really, really talented player, but it’s just his injury record is a real concern and may put people off, especially if you’ve been quoted £30m or whatever.
“But what a player he potentially can be. He is a very good player now, but if he could stay injury-free and get a real solid run of games, I think it could be absolutely outstanding.”
Could Newcastle sign Tierney despite his injuries troubles?
While Tierney may be delighted to be part of an Arsenal team pushing for the title, he likely won’t enjoy the fact that he’s dropped to the bench for large sections this season.
Indeed, in the Premier League, he has started just four games – although he has come off the bench a further 12 times, showing that Mikel Arteta still trusts him to a certain degree.
One key issue for Tierney throughout his career has been his fitness record. Indeed, he has spent time on the sidelines on a regular basis since arriving in England and similar issues were prevalent back at Celtic.
Having won the FA Cup with the Gunners, as well as numerous trophies in Scotland, there can be no doubting his talent. However, any possible transfer would certainly have to take into account his injury troubles.