U.S. International Weston McKennie “Open” to Leaving Schalke

Weston McKennie with USMNT in 2018
Weston McKennie with USMNT in 2018. Photo by Laszlo Geczo/INPHO/REX/Shutterstock

Talented U.S. midfielder Weston McKennie might be playing for a different club next season. According to ESPN, McKennie has been “open” towards the idea of leaving Bundesliga side Schalke 04.

McKennie emerged as a regular in Schalke’s midfield this season and remains highly regarded despite the club’s poor form in 2019/20. However, the 21-year-old player reportedly wouldn’t mind moving on if he receives an offer from a team that he perceives as a “good fit.”

Schalke might also be keen to sell, as the club finds itself in a tough financial situation after missing out on European competitions for the third straight year. Even sporting executive Jochen Schneider said on Wednesday that he wouldn’t rule McKennie’s exit in the summer.

“A departure can not be ruled out,” Schneider told reporters. “I can’t say it 100% right now. It’s a fact that Weston prolonged his contract through to 2024 last year.”

There are several teams interested in Weston McKennie at the moment, with Premier League sides Everton and Newcastle United reportedly being especially high one the American. A bid of around $25 million would reportedly convince Schalke to sell.

McKennie is also tracked by Hertha Berlin, as club’s manager Bruno Labbadia is his big fan.