Rangers legend makes big claim over Arsenal addition as Gunners defender open to loan move to Celtic

Rangers and Scotland legend Ally McCoist believes Arsenal will be making ‘a great signing’ when they complete the addition of Chelsea star Kai Havertz.

The Germany international is expected to be confirmed as Mikel Arteta’s first summer signing over the coming days after the Gunners agreed a deal believed to be worth around £65m with London rivals Chelsea.

The move will bring an end to Havertz’s three-year stay at Stamford Bridge, where he scored 32 goals in 139 games in all competitions and helped the Blues win the Champions League, UEFA Super Cup and FIFA World Club Cup. Pointing to his modest performances in front of goal, McCoist believes Havertz is not the striker Arteta is looking for and insisted the German can thrive as part of the Gunners side if he is played as an attacking midfielder.

He told talkSPORT: “He’s not a centre forward, I don’t care what anyone says he’s not a centre forward, never has been, never will be. He keeps coming towards the ball. I think in a forward area, and from a wide area they’ve already got Saka and Martinelli – different class. But Havertz can play as a No. 10 or in midfield. I actually think he will be a great signing.”

Gunners defender would consider loan move to former club

The future of Arsenal defender Kieran Tierney has been the subject of heavy speculation in recent months with the likes of Newcastle United and Aston Villa both said to be considering moves for the Scotland star.

The 26-year-old has been involved in discussions with Gunners manager Mikel Arteta as he seeks assurances over his role at the club during the coming campaign after making just 15 starts in all competitions last season. Arteta is said to be keen on retaining Tierney’s services as he looks to strengthen his squad ahead of what will be a hectic campaign across four different competitions.

There have now been suggestions Tierney ‘won’t close the door’ on a possible return to former club Celtic - with the Scottish Sun suggesting a loan move to the Scottish Premiership champions could be agreed if the two clubs find a compromise over a ‘substantial loan fee’ and contribution to the defender’s weekly wage.