USA Defender Mark McKenzi has told Sky Sports he would join Celtic in January if the opportunity arose.
The Philadelphia Union player has been on Celtic’s radar or a while but a deal has not been agreed to this point.
Celtic are in need of defensive reinforcements in January, and it could be the prefect time for Mark to come in and hit the ground running.
The 21-year-old was asked about the Celtic interest and what he knew about the club and the league. His response will be a major boost to any supporter who wants to see the player come into the club.
“Yeah, ultimately it’s about the situation being right for all parties.
“As the player you are probably the most important piece in the puzzle, but it’s about making sure it’s right for the club I’m at now but also the club I could potentially be going to.
“I want to be playing regular and consistent minutes – at least fighting for my spot and then trying to keep that spot. That’s the most important thing. It’s something I’ve obviously talked to my agents about and talked to the club and staff about and make sure it’s right for everyone.
“I’ve done my fair share of research (on Celtic and the Scottish Premiership) and I’ve always loved football so I’ve known about Celtic for a while. You hear about Celtic and the path of Virgil Van Dijk – going from there to the Prem.
“I’m no dummy when it comes to understanding the leagues. I have a general idea of what the leagues look like and keeping up with who is at the front of the pack in the league race and tournaments. I know about Celtic and the league – and a lot of other leagues. But it’s an exciting time, though.”
McKenzie sounds like he’s ready to make the move from the MLS and Celtic will have to be quick. The player is in demand with a lot of scouts watching his progress over the past year.
With Kristoffer Ajer out on the right, Shane Duffy and Christopher Jullien are at the back, should they get injured, options in the centre-back position become scarce. The window opens in two weeks time and Celtic must be ready to freshen up this side when they get the opportunity.
Mark has made his debut for his international side so it should be easier to get a work permit, unlike the two lads we’ve had out on-loan for the last two season.
