Celtic have identified Netherlands international Tyrell Malacia as a potential option should their bid to bring Kieran Tierney back on loan this month fall through. [MailSport]

Brendan Rodgers remains focused on securing a temporary deal for Tierney after he confirmed the left-back will make a sensational return in the summer on a pre-contract agreement. However, with Arsenal holding the final say on any January move, Celtic are exploring alternatives in case a deal cannot be struck before the window closes on Monday night.

Malacia, currently at Manchester United, is on Celtic’s radar, but they face competition from Real Betis for the 25-year-old. United are open to loan proposals after completing the signing of Lecce’s Patrick Dorgu, potentially freeing Malacia to move in search of game time.

Rodgers remains hopeful that Celtic can bring Tierney back to Glasgow ahead of schedule, particularly after Barcelona recalled Alex Valle and loaned him to Italian side Como, closing off another potential left-back option.

With Greg Taylor the only recognised senior left-back in the squad, the need for reinforcements is clear. While Tierney remains the priority, Celtic are keeping their options open as the clock ticks down on the transfer window.

Malacia was a regular in his debut season at Old Trafford and previously impressed at Feyenoord, where his performances earned him a move to the Premier League.

Celtic’s preference is to finalise a deal for Tierney, but with Arsenal unlikely to make a decision until late in the window, Rodgers may have to move quickly if an alternative is needed. Malacia is now a name to watch in the final days of the January window.