Celtic look set to miss out on defensive target Mark McKenzie, who is nearing a switch to Belgian side Genk. The USA Internationalist is the subject of interest from the Belgian side and despite a failed bid from the Scottish Champions, an agreement is nearing according to Sky Sports News’ Anthony Joseph.
KRC Genk are finalising a deal with Philadelphia Union for defender Mark McKenzie.@SkySportsNews understands the two clubs have been locked in negotiations over the festive period and are now close to agreeing a fee, which could rise to nearly £5m.
— Anthony Joseph (@AnthonyRJoseph) January 4, 2021
Celtic bid $3m in October but that was rebuffed by the MLS outfit, who will be looking to sealing a deal that is closer to £5m for the young central defender.
At just 21-years-old, Celtic appeared to be a promising option for both parties offering him a platform to play in Europe and compete for trophies but he appears to be on the cusp of a move to KRC Genk. Celtic could have upped the bid in the summer but opted to go for Shane Duffy on a season-long loan deal from Brighton.
Celtic are in the market for a central defender with Christopher Jullien injured the latter part of the season. Supporters will have assumed that someone of McKenzie’s profile would be the ideal candidate for a new signing; however, the club appear to have missed out on the target barring a late move to change the direction of McKenzie’s career path.
