Exciting news on Celtic's summer target Mark McKenzie has emerged after the defender admitted that he would be open to a move to Parkhead in January.

Speaking to Sky Sports, the Philadelphia Union ace highlighted Virgil van Dijk's success story as something that has inspired him. If the Hoops return for the £2.7million-valued centre-back next month, they could be looking at their next big club project.

McKenzie can be Celtic's Ajer replacement

The 21-year-old defender has already dropped a huge hint with his recent interview and if that's not enough to convince Peter Lawwell, he must look at the bigger picture. Celtic run a very high risk of losing star centre-back Kristoffer Ajer amid a flurry of interest all across Europe.

Several clubs came knocking for his services in the summer but the Hoops were able to hang onto their 6'5 colossus. However, as he continues to shine in Glasgow, it's surely only a matter of time before he is whisked away on his next journey.

AC Milan prepared a summer offer of £14million for the Norway international and it's unlikely they – and many others – will just drop their interest completely. Should Ajer be poached in summer, or even in January, Lawwell will have to make a new central defender his priority. Especially given the fact that Shane Duffy is only on loan and will return to Brighton in six months.

McKenzie is the perfect fit to join the Hoops and he has already expressed his desire to make the move sooner rather than later. His ability to stand strong in the heart of the defence as well as ping long balls towards the attackers will suit Neil Lennon's team very well.

This move is something that Lawwell should be all over, as it would be a huge statement for both the club and the player.

In other news, Rangers transfer blow could be big positive for Neil Lennon...