The transfer window for January has officially opened, setting off a flurry of speculation and potential moves for various football clubs. Among the teams anticipated to be active in the market this month is Celtic, with reports suggesting that they are keen on bolstering their squad in multiple areas. While the addition of a striker was initially believed to be a top priority for Brendan Rodgers, the news that Kyogo Furuhashi will not be leaving for the Asian Cup could have an impact on Celtic’s transfer plans in that position.
In addition to a striker, Celtic fans are also looking for reinforcements in the center-back position. Recent reports indicate that Rodgers might revisit his interest in a player he previously attempted to bring to Celtic Park during his first stint as manager in 2019. Scott McKenna, a Scotland international, has fallen out of favor at English Premier League club Nottingham Forest, leading to speculation about a potential return to the Scottish Premiership with Celtic.
The 27-year-old McKenna had previously attracted interest from Celtic, with reports now suggesting that the club may indeed be considering a move for him. In 2018, Celtic had a £3.5 million offer for McKenna rejected by Aberdeen, where he was a pivotal figure in the team. Despite interest from other clubs like Aston Villa and Queens Park Rangers, McKenna eventually made a move to Forest in 2020 for a fee of £3 million, potentially rising to £6 million with add-ons. He played a key role in their promotion to the Premier League in 2022, making 45 appearances and scoring two league goals.
However, McKenna’s fortunes changed in the Premier League, as he saw limited playing time, making only 20 league appearances in his first season and a mere five in the current season before falling out of favor with former manager Steve Cooper. Even with a new manager, Nuno Espírito Santo, at the helm, there are no early indications of McKenna breaking into the first team at Nottingham Forest.
As the European Championships loom this summer, McKenna may be eager to secure regular playing time to maintain his standing in the national team. It remains to be seen whether Celtic would pursue a loan or permanent transfer if they decide to pursue McKenna, who could be looking for opportunities elsewhere to ensure consistent game time.