Arsenal are said to be in a close battle with Italian side Napoli for Celtic right back Kieran Tierney according to reports from England. The Celtic defender had been the subject of two bids from the Gunners already which had been rejected.

It is understood that an initial bid of £15 million and a subsequent bid of £20 million had been turned down by the Scottish giants. it is understood that Italian giants Napoli have become the latest club to be linked with a move to for the player as they look to strengthen their defence ahead of next season.

Manager Carlo Ancelotti is keen on Tierney as he believes that the Scottish international would add pace and defensive solidity to the left side of the defence. Tierney has been one of the outstanding players in Celtic’s run of consecutive titles in Scotland.

The 24 year old is known for his marauding runs and is also a capable one on one defender as well as an excellent crosser of the ball. Napoli are thought to be ready to match Celtic demands of £25 million for the leftback. However the club are wary of loosing out on the player and have already begun negotiations with Rennes for the services of Fabio da Silva as an alternative option.

Arsenal still have the edge as Tierney would prefer a move to London than to Naples and is waiting for the club to submit as suitable offer for his services. He would be expected to displace SaedKolasinac from the first team.

Kolasinac has failed to convince many since making the move to the Emirates two seasons ago and Tierney is regarded as an upgrade. This transfer is one that could drag on until the last day of the transfer window.

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