Kilmarnock v Celtic - Viaplay Cup - Second Round - The BBSP Stadium Rugby Park Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers centre speaks to his backroom staff prior to kick-off in the Viaplay Cup second round match at The BBSP Stadium Rugby Park, Kilmarnock. Picture date: Sunday August 20, 2023. Use subject to restrictions. Editorial use only, no commercial use without prior consent from rights holder. PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxUKxIRL Copyright: xStevexWelshx 73393894
Just the day before yesterday, Scott McKenna, a defender for Nottingham Forest in the Premier League, was connected to Celtic.
The Scotland center back is no longer needed at the City Ground and is not part of Nuno Espirito Santo’s future plans.
McKenna’s deal expires at the end of the season, so he’ll probably move out on loan in January and look for a permanent place to live in the summer.
According to a report from Sky Sports on Friday, McKenna’s signing was being pursued by both Rangers and Celtic, and it appeared that a Glasgow transfer battle between the two teams was imminent.
However, things have drastically changed, at least from a Celtic perspective.
Scott McKenna not on Celtic shortlist
Even though McKenna has played just over 400 minutes of Premier League football this season, The Daily Record has officially severed the Hoops’ connection with him.
Rangers reportedly have a free hand in trying to sign McKenna on a loan until the end of the season, according to the exclusive that Keith Jackson published.
Brendan Rodgers is supposedly not interested in the centre-back, which makes a change from the time the Northern Irishman tried to sign him for Celtic during his first spell as boss.
In the end, McKenna moved to Forest for an initial £3m with the potential for it to rise to £6m – without doubt a club record fee received for Aberdeen.
McKenna’s non-move to Celtic doesn’t bother us too much. He’s hardly kicked a ball since September and wouldn’t be ready enough to make an impact straight away.
Sure, the Scottish Premiership is a step down for McKenna and he is at a good age. There are short-term benefits but he isn’t match fit and generally, we don’t think the deal would go down brilliantly with Celtic fans anyway.
