Philadelphia Union are preparing for the eventual departures of Mark McKenzie and Kai Wagner, sporting director Ernst Tanner told MLS Soccer of the reported Celtic and West Ham United targets.
If McKenzie has been keeping an eye on events in the green half of Glasgow, he will be under no illusions that he would have an almighty challenge on his hands if he swaps Pennsylvania for Glasgow in 2021.
Celtic’s ramshackle backline folded quicker than a sheet of A4 at the Origami World Championships at the San Siro as AC Milan, inspired by Jens Petter Hauge, turned a 2-0 deficit into a 4-2 win.
Neil Lennon’s struggling side have now conceded 27 times in their last 11 games, winning two of those.
So McKenzie would certainly have his work cut out if Celtic choose him to solve their litany of defensive issues.
Philadelphia Union confirmed on their official website that Celtic had shown an interest in the £1 million-rated USA international – who described interest from the Scottish champions as a ‘blessing’.
McKenzie’s teammate, the left-back Kai Wagner, is also reportedly a £3.5 million target for West Ham and Fulham (Mail).
While Tanner claims that no exits are imminent, the MLS Eastern Conference leaders know their prized assets won’t be sticking around forever.
“Look, at this moment there is nothing on the table. But we are not blind, we can’t wait until something comes, we’ll do our homework and always look for replacements,” the sporting director said.
Speaking to Kicker last week, former Schalke youngster Wagner admitted that he is keen to prove himself in a major European league, having made his name in Major League Soccer.
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