Caley Thistle manager John Hughes is weary of speculation surrounding leading scorer Billy McKay and has told interested clubs to put up or shut up.
Several English Championship clubs have been linked with the 18-goal Northern Ireland international but Hughes will do everything he can to keep McKay at Caledonian Stadium.
He said: “There have been no bids put in for Billy McKay. He is happy here and if there was a bid to come in for Billy and we were going to sell him it would have to be within the next week. We would have to go out and try to replace him. We don’t want to sell Billy. We want him here and next year as well. Hopefully, that will be the case.”
Hughes hopes new assistant Russell Latapy will arrive in Scotland sooner than expected to join him in the dugout at Pittodrie tomorrow as Caley Jags visit Aberdeen.
Midfielder James Vincent is set to miss out again against the Dons but will make his comeback in an under-20 game against St Johnstone in the Highland capital on Monday (2pm).
Hughes has offered new contracts to midfielder Ross Draper and Vincent, while distancing himself from a move for free agent Derek Riordan, the former Hibs and Celtic forward. He added: “Negotiations are ongoing with James and Ross and their agents.
“We are fully aware Ross and James are entitled to speak to whoever they want.
“Is the grass greener somewhere else? It is not always the case.
“Derek has had a lot of off-pitch problems but he is one of the most talented footballers I have worked with. Would I work with Derek Riordan again? I probably would but he is not on my agenda at this moment.”