Kieran Tierney faces Arsenal transfer sliding doors moment as 'serious' Jurrien Timber fear prompts Newcastle rethink

Kieran Tierney could be about to see his Arsenal sliding doors moment appear as fears grow over summer signing Jurrien Timber.

The Scotland international is reportedly subject of strong interest from Newcastle and Celtic are also rumoured to be interested in a blockbuster return bid. But reports on Monday morning suggested Eddie Howe is ready to double down on his Toon advances for the left-sided defender who was omitted from Saturday's Gunners squad against Nottingham Forest, with a loan deal with obligation to buy in the pipeline.

Summer import from Ajax Timber started ahead of both Tierney on the left side of the defence in the 2-1 weekend win, despite being a natural centre-back, while first-choice Oleksandr Zinchenko is injured. But he was subbed off with a knee injury and Football London claim "there are concerns that the injury could be a serious one." It's also stated Arsenal "are wary of making any hasty conclusions on the extent of the problem as knee injuries can take a longer time to diagnose than other parts of the body."

A long-term injury for the Dutchman is likely to have major ramifications for Tierney. While Zinchenko would be the favourite to come in at left-back, it would still leave boss Mikel Arteta needing cover, which the Scotsman provides.

Whether he is happy to remain a periphery man in North London for another season remains to be seen. Real Sociedad are also believed to have had a loan bid rebuffed in their attempt to take him to La Liga.

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