Last updated on .From the section Aberdeen

Scott McKenna played in Aberdeen's 3-2 win over Hearts on Sunday

Aberdeen and Scotland defender Scott McKenna has handed in a transfer request amid interest in the centre-half from English clubs.

The Pittodrie side have already rejected bids from Queens Park Rangers and Nottingham Forest for McKenna, 22, this summer.

Celtic, Aston Villa and Hull City all had significant fees turned down by the Scottish Premiership club last year.

The Scotland centre-back is contracted to Aberdeen until 2023.

McKenna has played five times this campaign for Derek McInnes' side, including Sunday's Premiership victory over Hearts.

'Bizarre timing' for McKenna request

Michael Stewart, former Hearts & Hibs midfielder on BBC Sportsound

I find the timing completely bizarre. When you look at Aberdeen's Europa League potential play-off opponents [Gent or Larnaca] - it's not easy, but for the first time in years they have a great opportunity.

The players they have brought in over the summer have hit the ground running. Aberdeen are in a good place, on the park.

He's 22, he's got a contract until 2023, what is the urgency?

I don't understand the rush to look at QPR or Notts Forest when the flip side is staying at Aberdeen as one of the main guys with potential Europa League, potential improvement on the international stage after a change in manager there, and then you have better clubs looking at you.

At this moment, he is a valuable member of the squad and I just don't think Aberdeen would sell unless there is a crazy offer.