Aberdeen do not appear to hold any first-option rights on buying Liam Scales from Celtic, despite reports indicating that’s what they were after as part of his loan move.
Scales has been linked to Pittodrie for a number of weeks now with reports suggesting they wanted him on a permanent basis, even if they had to go down the loan-to-buy route.
However, in the announcement on Aberdeen’s official website, there was no mention of any options, suggesting the clause is absent from the deal done with Celtic.
That suggests Celtic still regard this as a development loan, rather than one to get rid of Scales outright, apparently keen on seeing what he has to offer in the Scottish Premiership next term.
Crucially, Jim Goodwin already has a specific job in mind for Scales that could also point to a future with the Bhoys.
The Aberdeen manager has stated he will be utilised as a left-sided centre-back, not in the left-back slot that he was used in at Celtic last season.
This is where Scales played for Shamrock Rovers and Goodwin reckons it’s his best role.
If he shines there, Celtic may well be keen on giving him a try in 12 months time, with left-sided defenders becoming a pretty useful commodity these days.
If he has an impressive season in the north east, his value could be much greater than what Aberdeen are prepared to pay now. Just look at the money Calvin Ramsay has just moved for, direct from Pittodrie to Liverpool.
Scouts in big leagues are watching the Scottish Premiership closely and just because Scales won’t be playing for Celtic, doesn’t mean his value won’t increase.
Hopefully, this is the kind of loan that turns out great for all parties – Aberdeen get a good season out of Scales, the player gets another shot at playing for Celtic and, if not, a solid transfer fee comes out of it down the line.
In other news, Alexandro Bernabei to Celtic: Bhoys reach “verbal agreement” with Lanus.
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