£5 million compensation could prevent Celtic from appointing McKenna | OneFootball

Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna could prove too expensive for Celtic, with compensation set at around £5 million (h/t Daily Mail).

The 39-year-old is one of the leading names under consideration as Celtic search for a long-term successor to Brendan Rodgers, who resigned earlier this week.

McKenna’s impressive performance in charge of Ipswich has earned widespread admiration.

However, his contract, which runs until 2028, could complicate a potential move to Celtic.

When asked about speculation linking him to the Parkhead job, McKenna played down the talk but stopped short of dismissing the possibility.

“It’s a really big club,” he said. “We all have our affinities, but my focus is purely here at Ipswich.

“I’m privileged to manage this club, and I work as if I’m always going to be Ipswich manager.”

Pressed on whether he grew up a Celtic supporter, McKenna said: “We all have our clubs, but I don’t think everyone has to go around announcing what they are.”

While ‘fantastic‘ McKenna remains a strong candidate, the £5m compensation fee is a stumbling block.

The club is reluctant to overspend at this stage, especially given other viable options on their shortlist.

Former Celtic boss Ange Postecoglou considered a sensational return but is now unlikely to rejoin.

That leaves Wales boss Craig Bellamy and Club Brugge coach Nicky Hayen also in the frame.

Martin O’Neill and Shaun Maloney continue to oversee first-team duties on an interim basis, having started their tenure with a 4-0 win over Falkirk.

But with Rodgers’ shock exit forcing the Hoops to fast-track their managerial hunt, attention will soon turn to whether McKenna’s price tag is too high for the club.