Everton defender Jonjoe Kenny has expressed his interest in staying at FC Schalke 04, as reported by German outlet Bild. The 23-year-old has spent this season on loan in the Bundesliga and hopes to remain at the Veltins-Arena for the foreseeable future.
Jonjoe Kenny Hopeful of Staying at FC Schalke 04
Promising Season
The 23-year-old has had a solid debut season in the Bundesliga. The defender has made 23 appearances for Die Königsblauen, scoring once and providing three assists.
The Englishman, as reported by Bild, has “fallen in love” with the German club, something that is replicated by the fans and his manager, David Wagner.
Despite his ambition to stay, the current contract between the German side and his parent club doesn’t include an option to buy, with Everton likely to play hardball for a permanent transfer.
Kenny’s Rise
Schalke is the third club Kenny has spent time on loan at. In 2015, Everton loaned the youngster out to League One side Wigan Athletic, but the defender made just seven appearances.
In January 2016, Kenny was then sent on loan to League Two side Oxford United. During his time with the U’s, Kenny became a key figure in Michael Appleton’s squad and featured 20 times. During his time at the Kassam Stadium, the young defender won promotion to League One and was also part of the side that reached the Football League Trophy final.
Oxford were hopeful of retaining the young defender for another season, but following a serious injury to Seamus Coleman, Everton recalled Kenny. He played 25 times as Everton finished the season 8th.
However, with Coleman’s return and extra competition for places, Kenny was subsequently loaned out again, this time to Germany.
Where Next for Kenny?
With Coleman back in the fray, Everton also have Mason Holgate, Lucas Digne, Leighton Baines and Cuco Martina who can feature at full-back.
Kenny certainly has shown his potential, and because of that, the 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup and 2018 Toulon Tournament winner will be looking for regular football, something that the German outfit are clearly able to offer.
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