By Charlotte Cohen

21st May, 2023 | 9:09am

Scots pundit tells Newcastle United to complete deal for 'world class' Kieran Tierney - 'I keep in touch with him'

Frank McAvennie has insisted Kieran Tierney is a “step up” on Newcastle United’s current left-back options.

Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Celtic and West Ham striker said Tierney is “the best” left-back out there who has the potential to be world class.

On 18 May, sources told this site that the Magpies are in a very strong position to complete the signing of the 25-year-old this summer.

The left-back is a top target for Eddie Howe with Man City having also sounded out the possibility of signing him this summer.

But the Scotland international is believed to be keen to move closer to his family and Newcastle presents the best opportunity to do so.

McAvennie insisted Newcastle would be the perfect club for Tierney.

“The only reason he is not getting a game [at Arsenal] is because Arteta wants to play a midfield player,” he told Football Insider.

“It is nothing to do with his attributes.

“He will love it at Newcastle and he is young enough to go and be part of that journey, like [Kieran] Trippier.

“If you want a left-back Tierney is the best. I think Eddie Howe likes his defenders to defend so Tierney would be ideal for Newcastle.

“I keep in touch with him and follow his career and I really want him to do well. For me Tierney is a step up on what Newcastle have got, he could be world class if he gets a run of games.“

In other news, Kieran Maguire has tipped Newcastle United to strike a major deal after source’s Arsenal reveal.