Why Wolves must go all out to sign Aberdeen star Scott McKenna
According to reports from The Sun, Premier League outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers are weighing up a bid for Aberdeen centre-back Scott McKenna.
The Scottish international is being chased by Aston Villa while Celtic are also understood to be eyeing a move for the defender. Now, Wolves have thrown their hat in the ring as well, after scouting the Dons’ starlet in action during their 1-0 win over Motherwell last weekend (h/t The Sun).
A graduate of the Aberdeen academy, McKenna spent the 2016/17 term away on loan with Ayr United, before he became an integral part of Derek McInnes’ side last season. And suffice to say, he is undoubtedly one of the best centre-backs in the competition right now.
McKenna finished the 2017/18 campaign with 35 appearances across all competitions, scoring three goals in the process and impressing with a series of mature displays at the back. He was also nominated for the PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year award. In the ongoing term, the centre-back has featured six times across all competitions.
The youngster’s performances have made him a mainstay in the Dons’ backline and also earned him a call-up for the Scotland national team in March earlier this year. McKenna impressed with his displays for the national side, with manager Alex McLeish handing him the captain’s armband for the tie against Mexico. Till date, he has racked up four international appearances.
Wolves have been defensively stingy upon their return to the Premier League this season. Nuno Espirito Santo’s side have just let in just six goals in eight league games, which is the best record for a team outside the top three.
In Ryan Bennett, Conor Coady and Willy Boly, Wolves have a reliable and dependable centre-back partnership. They also have the promising Kortney Hause providing cover from the bench along with summer arrival Leander Dendoncker. It might seem they have enough options but bringing in McKenna will add further quality and depth to the squad.
At 6ft 3in, the 21-year-old cuts an imposing figure at the back and has all the physical attributes needed to be a success in England. The left-footed centre-back is comfortable playing out from the back, which would sit in well with the brand and style of football Nuno has implemented at the Molineux.
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McKenna, despite his tender age, has demonstrated great maturity and has shown immense promise in his fledgeling career. Given that he is only 21, Wolves would truly benefit by making a move for him in the next transfer window.
