Scottish Link With Wigan Athletic Midfielder Played Down

Aberdeen’s link with Wigan Athletic midfielder Jamie McGrath has been played down, as the Press and Journal report that the club’s reported interest is wide of the mark.

McGrath joined Wigan from St Mirren in January last year but only went on to make four appearances in Lancashire, with one start coming in the league and left on loan in August joining Dundee United.

During his time back in Scotland last season, McGrath scored nine goals in 37 appearances for the Tangerines but ultimately saw relegation, as Dundee were relegated to the Scottish Championship.

The midfielder has one season remaining on his contract at the DW Stadium but is expected to leave the club this summer, as they prepare for life in League One under new owner Mike Danson, who completed his takeover last week.

On Sunday, it was reported that Aberdeen and Hibernian were keen on signing McGrath, but it is now reported the Dons are not reigniting their interest in the Irish international. The club were interested in the midfielder during Jim Goodwin’s time as boss but are not prepared to make a move now.

Aberdeen have already made three signings this window, Nicky Devlin from Livingston, Leighton Clarkson joins the Dons on a permanent basis from Liverpool and the arrival of Slovenian striker Ester Sokler from NK Radomlje.

Hibernian boss Lee Johnson is keen on a move for McGrath and is set to offer the midfielder a return to the Scottish top flight with an exit from the DW Stadium on the cards for the Irishman.

McGrath has been capped seven times for the Republic of Ireland and will be looking to add to that number, with international friendlies currently underway and European qualifiers upcoming for next year’s tournament.

Wigan have been plagued with troubles this past year and will begin next season with a points deduction at the beginning of the League One season. The club’s Bahraini ownership has seen numerous occasions of failure to pay players on time, a takeover by local businessman Mike Danson was completed last week, but players are still expected to depart with the club’s relegation.

Writer’s View

McGrath has been plying his trade in Scotland for some time now and his performances last season appear to have caught the eye of others in the division. Aberdeen meanwhile have had a busy transfer window so it is no surprise that they are not interested in a move, with signings already completed.