TalkSPORT claims that Kieran McKenna’s transfer to Brighton & Hove Albion is at a “advanced stage”.
At Ipswich Town, where he is now playing, McKenna, 38, has established himself.
Although he was once at Manchester United, the youthful manager’s tenure at Portman Road has helped him establish his reputation and make headlines as he has led the team to consecutive promotions.
The Tractor Boys could end up becoming the victims of their own success with McKenna though, with their recent promotions allowing the 38-year-old to generate plenty of interest in his signature.
The opportunity to manage Ipswich in the Premier League could be enough to see him remain at Portman Road, but there is plenty of interest in him at this stage and that has cast doubt on his future at his current club.
Brighton are one team thought to be keen on McKenna, having seen Roberto De Zerbi leaving the Amex Stadium following the final game of the 2023/24 campaign.
It doesn’t seem as though De Zerbi has left to take charge of another club, but it wouldn’t be a surprise to see him back in management sooner rather than later.
With the Italian leaving the south-coast club, they have needed to shortlist some candidates, and it seems as though McKenna is at the top of their list.
Latest on Kieran McKenna’s future amid Ipswich Town exit links
Another team that is rumored to be a McKenna fan is Chelsea, who is free to pursue him in the wake of Mauricio Pochettino’s firing yesterday.
Many supporters have not taken well to Pochettino’s departure, so if the Northern Irishman wants people to forget about the Argentine’s dismissal, he must make an impression right away.
Brighton appears to be in the lead in this transfer market, with the 38-year-old’s move to the Amex Stadium reportedly at a “advanced stage.” His former club, Manchester United, is rumored to be interested in him as well.
Speaking last night, McKenna stated that while he wasn’t focused on rumors, they might not stop for a while unless he takes a firm choice regarding his future, such as leaving or possibly signing a new contract.
Kieran McKenna needs to think about his future very carefully
The Northern Irishman looks to have two excellent options on the table, if the talkSPORT report is accurate.
Brighton are an excellent team that has an exciting future under Tony Bloom, who has done a magnificent job at the Amex Stadium.
And joining the Seagulls may be more appealing for the 38-year-old than making the switch to either the Blues or United, both of whom have been in turmoil in recent years.
Staying at Ipswich could also be a good choice though, with McKenna likely to get plenty of time to turn things around at Portman Road if they endure a difficult period of form.
Having that time and patience could be crucial, so staying put may be a good option.
