Why Celtic must splash £10million to sign Aberdeen’s Scott McKenna
As per reports from the Scottish outlet Daily Record, Aberdeen have placed a £10million price tag on defensive mainstay Scott McKenna.
The 21-year-old, who is a subject of interest for EFL Championship outfit Swansea City, had been one of Aberdeen’s most impressive players in the 2017/18 term. And keen on not losing on the centre-back on the cheap, the Dons are set to demand a hefty £10million fee for his services.
McKenna has been linked with a move to Scottish champions Celtic and Aberdeen’s demand for a big fee shouldn’t put off the Hoops from pursuing a deal for the Scotland international.
Celtic, despite their treble-winning campaign last time out, weren’t all that secure defensively. Brendan Rodgers’ side suffered on a number of occasions due to inconsistent performances from Jozo Simunovic and Dedryck Boyata.
January arrivals Jack Hendry and Marvin Compper also failed to make an impact. The former never looked convincing, while the latter spent most of his time out on the treatment table.
Things haven’t improved a great deal during Celtic’s pre-season. Hendry and Simunovic still look shaky, while Compper’s injury struggles have continued as well. Boyata will be unavailable for the start of the campaign, due to an extended break following his involvement in the recently concluded World Cup with Belgium.
Also, the fact that the Belgian international has been linked with a move away from Parkhead lately, should prompt Celtic to sign a new centre-back this summer.
And McKenna would be the most perfect choice for Rodgers and the Bhoys. Having spent the 2016/17 term away on loan with Ayr United, the 21-year-old became an integral part of Derek McInnes’ side last season.
He finished the 2017/18 campaign with 35 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals in the process, and impressing with a series of mature displays at the back.
The youngster’s performances made him a mainstay in the Dons’ backline and earned him a call up for the Scotland national team to face Costa Rica, Peru and Mexico in friendlies.
McKenna’s displays for the national side earned rave reviews, with manager Alex McLeish handing him the captain’s armband for the tie against Mexico. He was also nominated for the PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year award.
At 6ft 3in, the 21-year-old cuts an imposing figure at the back and has all the physical attributes needed to be a success. The left-footed centre-back is comfortable playing out from the back, which would sit in well with the brand and style of football that Rodgers has implemented at Celtic Park.
McKenna, despite his tender age, has demonstrated great maturity and has shown great promise in his fledgling career. With his immense potential, Celtic could truly benefit by making a move for him this summer.
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