Kieran McKenna has reportedly emerged as a leading candidate to replace Brendan Rodgers as Celtic manager — and could cost the club a record fee to secure.
The Ipswich Town boss is said to be open to taking the Celtic job, with reports suggesting he has entered the frame following Brendan Rodgers’ resignation on Monday evening. In the meantime, Martin O’Neill has returned to Parkhead to take charge on an interim basis.
McKenna, 39, earned widespread praise for guiding Ipswich Town back to the Premier League in 2024, following an impressive spell as assistant manager at Manchester United. Although the Tractor Boys delivered several encouraging performances in the top flight, they were relegated after just one season, and currently sit 12th in the Championship, having won only four of their opening 11 matches.
According to the BBC, McKenna has become an attractive option for the Scottish champions, with sources suggesting he would welcome discussions over the position. The Northern Irishman signed a four-year deal at Portman Road after Ipswich’s promotion, and The Sun reports that Celtic would need to pay as much as £5 million in compensation to secure his services — potentially the highest fee ever paid by a Scottish club for a manager.
Speaking before the 2024/25 campaign, McKenna acknowledged the growing interest in his work but insisted he was content with his decision to remain at Ipswich:
“It’s part and parcel of success — there’s always interest from other clubs, and management is a short career. While it’s right to consider options, I’m very happy with the decision I’ve made.
I’m extremely proud to have signed a new contract with Ipswich. We’ve enjoyed incredible success together over the past two seasons, and leading this club into its first Premier League season in 22 years was a great honour. I’m excited for what’s ahead as we continue this journey.”
Meanwhile, interim boss Martin O’Neill faces the immediate challenge of reviving Celtic’s form, with the Hoopscurrently eight points adrift of league leaders Hearts after a weekend defeat to the Edinburgh club.
In the wake of Rodgers’ departure, major shareholder Dermot Desmond issued a strongly worded statement, acknowledging the “toxic atmosphere” surrounding the club and urging unity as Celtic look to stabilise their season.
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