Aberdeen have approached St Mirren regarding a deal for midfielder Jamie McGrath, Sky Sports have reported.
The broadcaster says that McGrath’s contract runs out in Paisley at the end of the season and he’s yet to sign up to a new record-breaking wage at the Buddies.
The Dons now want to tie him down before a bidding war emerges for him on the open market, given he is now free to speak to any club he likes.
The six-cap Republic of Ireland international was touted as Celtic quality by his manager Jim Goodwin as recently as last April.
Goodwin stated he was a “Celtic player” and compared him favourably to Callum McGregor and David Turnbull, both of whom are big players at the Bhoys.
The St Mirren boss told The Scottish Sun: “For me, Jamie McGrath is a Celtic player. I look at some of the lads who are there now, like David Turnbull, Callum McGregor and Ryan Christie.
“I can see Jamie being among that level. I don’t want him leaving and going down to League One in England because they might double his money.
“If he’s going to leave I want it to be a top club that’s going to compete and win things, and help him progress and take his game to the next level. Jamie’s a very intelligent and level-headed young man, and he won’t be influenced by the first decent offer.”
McGrath had a stunning 2020/21 campaign scoring 17 goals and assisting six goals in all competitions for St Mirren. He’s a talent, even if he’s struggled to replicate that form this season. [Transfermarkt]
I have no doubt Celtic know all about the midfielder’s situation. If an international player is available on a pre-contract in our own backyard, we’re going to have an eye on it all.
Ultimately it’s unclear if the Bhoys hold interest. The smart money would say not considering there are no reports or rumours to indicate it. However, there are worse squad options out there and it has to be noted he will be available on the cheap.
Perhaps a name to keep a cheeky eye on over the coming weeks.
In other news, Video: The unbelievable Kyogo-esque Daizen Maeda hat-trick Celtic supporters must watch.
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