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Premier League side Wolves have joined Aston Villa and Celtic in the hunt for Aberdeen defender Scott McKenna, The Scottish Sun reports.

What's the word?

Aston Villa have struggled defensively this season and their issues at the back can be traced back to a failed move for Aberdeen defender Scott McKenna during the summer transfer window, with the SPL side making it clear to Villa and Celtic that they would not approve a sale.

The battle for McKenna's signature has now been knocked up a notch as The Scottish Sun states that newly-promoted Premier League side Wolves are the latest club to express an interest in the Scottish international, having sent scouts to watch the 21-year-old against Motherwell last week.

Villa still maintain an interest in the highly-rated defender, as they look to unite him with international colleague John McGinn, but the uncertain future of Steve Bruce at Villa Park could derail their chances of securing a move.

Villa's prime target?

With Villa having a poor defensive record compared to many of their Championship rivals, it is clear why the club remains on the hunt for defensive additions - and missing out on McKenna would be a huge blow.

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The 21-year-old would immediately slot into the heart of Villa's defence in their quest to push for promotion to the Premier League and that lure could work in the club's favour, as he may not be guaranteed starts at Wolves or Celtic.

However, Wolves have the ability to blow Villa out of the water financially and this may be an early warning for the Championship strugglers to consider alternative targets as the danger of missing out on McKenna is high.