Will Weston McKennie be on the move from Schalke 04 this summer? Sources told ESPN it’s a possibility.
The US men’s national team midfielder is reportedly in favor of going to another Bundesliga side — Hertha Berlin and VfL Wolfsburg were mentioned as teams expressing interest — if Schalke are looking to sell him and if the new club proves to be a good fit. The 21-year-old is reportedly unhappy at Schalke, which went a club record 16 matches without a win this season.
"A departure can not be ruled out," Schalke sporting executive Jochen Schneider said on Wednesday amidst reports the club are looking to reduce costs due to financial difficulties. "I can't say it 100% right now. It's a fact that Weston prolonged his contract through to 2024 last year.”
German outlet Sport1 said McKennie, who showcased his versatility by playing as an attacking midfielder and a holding midfielder as well as a center back at times this season, could command a transfer free in the €20-€25 million range.
The former FC Dallas academy had a strong close to the season, with all three of his Bundesliga goals coming in the club’s final 10 matches — nine of which came following the league’s resumption of play from the COVID-19 pandemic.
McKennie, who joined the Schalke first team after competing for its U-19 side for nearly a year, has become a regular fixture in the USMNT midfield with six goals in 19 appearances.
