Man Utd close in on surprise transfer of 17-year-old wonderkid

Tom Weber

• 9 Jan 2024 03:58 CST
• 3 min read

Manchester United are closing in on the transfer of Callan McKenna, according to a report.

The 17-year-old goalkeeper has been one of the breakout stars in Scotland's second tier this term, making seven first-team appearances prior to an unfortunate injury. McKenna also features for Scotland's U19s.

According to the Daily Record, Man Utd are closing in on a big-money deal to sign the youngster. It is asserted that a six-figure sum will be paid to the Scottish side upfront, but that the overall transfer fee could reach seven figures as the deal will be loaded with add-ons and bonuses.

The Red Devils and the Spiders are believed to be in advanced talks over the goalkeeper, who was previously on the books at Celtic and Hibs. Moreover, it is claimed that Arsenal and Chelsea had also been tracking the teenager, but that they are set to miss out on his signature, as are Leicester with whom he previously had a training trial.

Will McKenna be part of Man Utd's first team?

The report did not mention if McKenna will be signed to be Erik ten Hag's third-choice goalkeeper. It seems more likely that he will first enter the Red Devils' academy set-up despite his promising form and Andre Onana's impending departure for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Altay Bayindir is set to deputise in goal in the absence of the Cameroon star. The Turkey international is yet to play a single minute of football for the Red Devils after his €5 million move from Fenerbahce in the summer.

Erik ten Hag has kept the faith in Onana despite his repeated mistakes, particularly in the Champions League, which at one point saw many fans and pundits calling for him to be dropped.