According to The Philadelphia Inquirer, Celtic look set to miss out on centre-back target Mark McKenzie.

What's the story?

Reports over the summer had suggested that Neil Lennon's side were very much interested in signing the USA international, and now, The Philadelphia Inquirer have revealed that the Hoops had a bid rejected for the 21-year-old.

It's added that McKenzie's side, Philadelphia Union, have agreed a fee with Belgian top-flight outfit Genk, and a move could be on the cards for next month.

The report states the transfer fee isn’t known yet "but since the Union turned down Celtic’s bid, it’s a safe bet that they’re going to make more money from Genk."

Lawwell has to intervene

Despite only being 21, McKenzie is already earning rave reviews for his performances, and appears set to enjoy a fine career.

Speaking on The Athletic's Total Soccer Show, Daryl Grove said: "I love the idea of Mark McKenzie going to Celtic. If you’re not familiar with Mark McKenzie, he really is a great centre-back.

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"He is so good at getting around the other side of you and just getting to the ball first. He’s also really good with the ball, some really nice passing out of the back, and I think, maybe most importantly, he appears to be one of those natural leader-types."

Described as a "Rolls-Royce of a player", McKenzie could come straight into Lennon's starting eleven at Celtic Park and nail down a spot.

Make no mistake about it, Lawwell just has to come back in with an improved bid and pip Genk at the finishing post.