Report: Celtic eye bargain deal for MLS wonderkid, already made USA debut

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The Daily Record have claimed that Celtic are eyeing a move to sign Philadelphia Union wonderkid Mark McKenzie after the left-footed defender emerged as one of MLS’ best youngsters since his debut in 2018.

McKenzie, 21, has sparkled for Philadelphia after breaking into the senior side two years ago. He has since clocked up 36 appearances for his boyhood club, but could now be about to leave for a bargain fee as Celtic are keen.

A left-footed centre-back, McKenzie can also offer cover on the left side of the defence and has already earned a USA cap. He played on Thursday as Philadlephia beat New York City in the MLS Is Back Tournament.

It is believed that Celtic are keen to lure him to Glasgow and can sign the defender – who has a contract until December 2022 – for less than £1million. He is eyed as a replacement for Jozo Simunovic.

TBR’s view – Different kind of centre-back for Celtic

Both Christopher Jullien and Kris Ajer are right-footed and bringing in a left-footed centre-back is a modern trend that is becoming more and more important. For a bargain fee, then, McKenzie could be ideal.

Bags of pace, comfortable on the ball and also able to offer cover at left-back, landing a USA international for a smaller fee than £1million is simply a no-brainer for Celtic.