Peterborough United have had a “significantly higher” offer than any rival club turned down for St Johnstone forward Makenzie Kirk, according to fresh reports from Scotland.
The 20-year-old, who scored seven times in the Scottish Premiership last season despite the Perth club’s relegation, is entering the final year of his contract. However, St Johnstone boss Simo Valakari insists there is no urgency to cash in on the Northern Ireland Under-21 international, who has already netted four goals in the Scottish League Cup this term.
‘Not desperate to sell’
Speaking to the Courier and Advertiser, Valakari confirmed the club had rejected the Posh approach.
“The club rejected an approach for Makenzie. It is normal football business. Makenzie is a good player who is young and who scores goals. We knew there would be interest in him this summer and rightly so. Nothing has changed.
“He is our player and he is working hard so we will see what happens. We are not desperate to sell. Scoring goals is the hardest job in football.”
Kirk has yet to score in two Scottish Championship appearances this season, having been used from the bench in both games, but his record in cup competitions underlines his potential value.
Ferguson still pushing for deals
Peterborough manager Darren Ferguson addressed transfer matters on Monday, confirming that the club remains active in the market.
“We have targets,” he said. “Obviously we go for our first choice in any position and hope that we get them, but if we don’t we work through our list.”
With Posh keen to strengthen their attacking options, Kirk remains a name of interest, but St Johnstone’s firm stance suggests any breakthrough will require an improved bid or a change in the Scottish club’s position later in the window.
Writer’s View
Peterborough’s pursuit of Kirk appears to be a case of high ambition meeting firm resistance. The young striker’s track record in the top flight and early-season cup form make him an attractive target, but St Johnstone are right to stand their ground while he continues to score.
For Posh, the decision will be whether to test that resolve again or shift their focus to alternatives before the market closes. They do have a tendency to return with bigger bids, and a desire to add talented young players to their squad, but will the bidding be too rich?
It remains to be seen.
