The last time a USA international arrived at Leeds United, it didn’t exactly go to plan, as Weston McKennie came from and went back to Juventus without impressing.
He is now an immovable object in Max Allegri’s plans, but this article isn’t about him, it’s about his compatriot, Mark McKenzie.
That name may not mean much to you, but, according to Voetbal Nieuws, Leeds are reportedly interested in the American centre-back, currently contracted to KRC Genk in Belgium.
The website have a big article on the player and explain that while he was a star last season, he has been far more inconsistent this year.
However, despite interest from England and Germany and a dip in form, Genk ‘would like to keep him’ as Dimitri de Condé, their technical director, promises to be ‘very difficult’ in talks for the 24-year-old.
Having arrived for more than €5m, McKenzie was a big investment for the Belgians, which is why they want to make sure they maximise any sale that comes down the line.
The problem was no one came knocking in the summer, and while he hasn’t played as well, some teams have been interested this winter.
The website name the likes of Brighton, West Ham and Everton as keen parties, and add that Leeds are ‘also said to be interested in him’.
What works in everyone’s favour, except Genk’s, is that McKenzie will enter the final year of his contract next year, making this summer the ideal time to get him.
So far, no real renewal talks have taken place, but regardless of the situation, Leeds, and anyone else who might want ‘Air McKenzie’ (his nickname), will have to deal with tough negotiations from De Condé.
