Celtic transfer state of play on Tierney, Valle, Barry and Moro as Rodgers reveals 'shifting pieces'

Brendan Rodgers admits there are several pieces to the Celtic transfer puzzle – but he insists his side won’t be left short for Europe of the second half of the season.

The Hoops are trying to secure a deal to bring Kieran Tierney back to the club on a loan more before a permanent return in the summer. Record Sport understands Celts could allow on loan Barcelona left back Alex Valle to head to Serie A outfit Como – if the Tierney deal from Arsenal gets a green light. But Valle is not going to be on the move before Celtic’s vital Champions League clash with Young Boys as Rodgers would not be able to add any new faces to the European squad.

The Irishman won’t allow his squad to be weakened for the continental clashes – or the domestic run in. Rodgers - who is gearing up to face Kilmarnock in the Scottish Cup on Saturday – said: “No, there's absolutely no way that would happen. Obviously, with Alex coming in here on loan, I make a commitment to a young player to come in and play.

“He's loved his time here. He enjoys it here. He enjoys the football. He's become a Champions League player coming to Celtic. And he's in no rush to leave. However, if something was to change on that front, where he may not be getting the game time, then I have to be open and honest with him to let him understand this. But he knows absolutely the picture here. And like I said, my honesty and commitment will be with him, first and foremost, in terms of what the situation is.

“Alex is still very much a player here. Lots of rumours around lots of players and lots of moving parts. But at this very moment, Alex is here and getting ready for the game tomorrow.

“I think there a numbers of decisions on players here. But certainly we've got work to do.