Digne has proved Everton right to shun Tierney deal and sign him instead

By Sam Preston

Everton were keen to sign Celtic defender Kieran Tierney during last summer’s transfer window, before pulling out of the deal at the last minute, according to the Sun.

They report that as Arsenal now chase the Scotland international ahead of the forthcoming transfer window, Everton were hot on his tracks last summer until their board shunned the deal because of the asking price.

But Everton were still in need of a long-term left-back option to take up the mantle from Leighton Baines and that’s where Lucas Digne came in.

Marco Silva brought the Frenchman in from Barcelona for a fee that the BBC reported at the time was £18m – £7m less than the £25m the Sun report Celtic will demand from the Gunners if they want Tierney.

(Photo by Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images)

Not all of Everton’s summer business has been successful, but Digne has been a bright spot in a season that has had its fair share of ups and downs.

He is clearly a man determined to make up for lost time after stagnating at Barca, but has showcased his international class with his constant energy and pinpoint delivery from the left.

Perhaps Tierney will come to the Premier League next season with Arsenal – showing Everton what they pulled away from – but for as long as Digne keeps his form up, the Toffees will be very content with the player they bought instead.