According to the latest reports from Bristol Live, Celtic could once again look to make a move for Aberdeen’s centre half Scott McKenna, but only if either of Jozo Simunovic or Kristoffer Ajer depart from the club this summer. Simunovic has been linked with a move to French outfit Lille, and Brendan Rodgers wants Ajer at Leicester City.
Various Championship outfit are interested in the Scottish international, and he has even reportedly handed in a transfer request. It is believed that he could cost in upwards of £5m after he signed a long term contract not too long ago. Celtic will be all too familiar with McKenna as they had tried to sign him last summer as well, but their bid was rejected.
What now for Lennon?
It remains to be seen whether there is any concrete interest for Simunovic or Ajer. Once the English transfer window closes, Lennon can be relatively safe about Ajer staying (unless clubs outside of England starts circling for him), but Simunovic’s future could still be uncertain if Lille decides to offer big money for the Croatian defender.
Ideally, Celtic should keep hold of their best players, especially now that they are on the verge of parting ways with Kieran Tierney. However, every player has a price in today’s day and age, and one cannot ignore the financial muscle of the top clubs.
Good thing for Celtic is that they should have time to bring in someone like McKenna as Championship outfits won’t be able to sign him anymore once their transfer window closes in a couple of hours.
Will McKenna be a good bet?
The Scotland international has been one of the stand out centre backs in the Scottish Premiership, and he has played a massive role for Aberdeen over the past few years. Celtic will get a proven player at the Premiership level, and there is no doubt to us that he would be a good signing.
The defender is still just 22, but he has shown maturity beyond his years. He is calm and composed on the ball and can play out from the back. Moreover, the Scotsman is up for a physical battle, and he has that doggedness to his game, which is often needed to succeed at the top level.
He is strong in the air and can time his tackles to perfection. The defender might make some odd rash challenges here and there, but he will only improve from here on. McKenna’s decision making is also right up there, and he will be a good bet to replace either of Ajer or Simunovic.
