It’s finally December and that means everyone has just one thing on their mind… the January transfer window (obviously).
Huge money moves, big name transfers and a squad of Dons stars itching to set things right against the Old Firm.
Here are today’s top stories…
Top Stories
- Outgoing Hearts head coach Robbie Neilson hailed his players following their victory against Rangers. The praise comes ahead of finalising his move to English League One outfit MK Dons. (Various)
- Dundee United boss Ray McKinnon believes Ian Cathro, currently part of Newcastle’s coaching staff, is the perfect candidate to succeed Hearts coach Robbie Neilson. (Scottish Sun)
- Celtic midfielder Stuart Armstrong, who has started the last seven game, is determined to retain his place in the starting line-up as the club searches for midfield additions. (Daily Record)
- Hamilton Accies boss Martin Canning says he is happy with his squad and does not plan to go on a recruitment drive when the window opens in January. (Various)
- Dons winger Niall McGinn is confident Aberdeen can purge the disappointment of the League Cup final to take all three points against Rangers. (Daily Record)
- Hibs boss Neil Lennon is preparing a move for St Johnstone midfielder Danny Swanson, who will be able to sign a pre-contract deal when the transfer window opens. (Various)
- Celtic can expect to net a £5m return for Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk with the £50m-rated Dutch international tipped for a move to Manchester United or Liverpool. (Various)
South of the Border
- England manager Gareth Southgate could strip the national team’s captaincy from Manchester United forward Wayne Rooney (Daily Express)
- The Red Devils are planning a £180million deal for Neymar as the Brazilian continues to question his future in La Liga (Daily Record)
- Chelsea are considering a £24m-bid for 25-year-old Napoli defender Faouzi Ghoulam. (Le Buteur)
And Finally…
Derek McInnes may have the Dons in the best shape they have been in for years but there are still gaps to be sorted out.
With the January transfer window fast approaching, the Aberdeen boss will be looking at his options and where he can potentially strengthen.
In the Summer window, he brought in Joe Lewis, Anthony O’Connor, Jayden Stockley, Callum Morris, Neil Alexander, Miles Storey; and Wes Burns and James Maddison on loan.
McInnes’ signings have proven incredibly astute, with the likes of Maddison and O’Connor immediately settling into the squad and Joe Lewis appearing to be a permanent solution to the Dons’ goalkeeping woes.
So where can McInnes improve – and who might he seek out to add to his ranks? Click here to see the key areas the gaffer should look at.