Fermanagh's Kieran McKenna has been linked to some of the biggest clubs in the Premier League as the managerial race heatsup
McKenna, a Coa native, helped Ipswich Town reach the Championship after leaving Manchester United in 2022. He then went one better and helped Ipswich reach the Premier League this year for the first time since 2002.
The 38-year-old is seen as one of the brightest managerial prospects in England for his work, and a number of clubs have been linked to his services for the next season.
For example, Brighton & Hove Albion, who have just parted ways with Roberto De Zerbi, have been heavily linked to McKenna.
A report from The Times states that Brighton believes that they will beat Chelsea to McKenna and that they will pay the fee required to bring him to the south coast of England.
"Brighton & Hove Albion are confident of beating Chelsea to a deal for Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna," said The Times.
"Brighton are expected to make a formal approach to Ipswich for McKenna to succeed Roberto De Zerbi as their head coach. The South Coast club is willing to meet the 38-year-old’s personal terms and pay a reported £6 million in compensation to the newly promoted Premier League club."
Kieran McKenna, Manager of Ipswich Town, is one of the names linked with a move to Manchester United. (Photo by Catherine Ivill/Getty Images) )Chelsea, who are also without a manager after Mauricio Pochettino's departure, are also keen to bring in the young manager.
The Independent has stated that McKenna would welcome an approach from Chelsea in the coming days.
"Kieran McKenna has given Chelsea the green light to step up their approach, which could see the Ipswich manager replace Mauricio Pochettino at Stamford Bridge," added The Independent.
"The Northern Irishman is understood to be keen on the job and has welcomed the Blues putting him on their shortlist of candidates. Ipswich want McKenna to stay and will offer the 38-year-old a new contract, despite his current deal running until 2027."
Finally, Manchester United, where McKenna was formerly a U-18s coach and first team coach, is another potential destination. The Manchester Evening News states United, his old club, would be his preferred destination if it came down to the three teams in contention.
"Brighton earmarked McKenna as their preferred choice to replace Roberto De Zerbi, but it is understood they could be trumped by Chelsea or United. Sources say Chelsea have already held discussions with McKenna's representatives, but he is reluctant to rush into a decision amid the possibility of a managerial change at United, who are believed to be his ideal destination," said the MEN.
