ABERDEEN manager Alex Miller yesterday started what is expected to be a major summer overhaul of his playing staff by clinching the signing of Middlesbrough midfielder Craig Hignett.
The Pittodrie manager met Hignett for talks earlier this week before flying out with the Scotland squad to New Jersey in his role as assistant to Craig Brown.
Hignett was a key player in Boro's quick return to the Premiership this season and his popularity with the Riverside fans was demonstrated when 40,000 signed a petition begging him to stay.
After persuading the out-of-contract player to agree to a reported #8000-a-week wage packet, Miller is convinced he will be a success in a new-look Dons side next season.
''I am delighted that Craig has agreed to join us,'' he said. ''He is a quality player who I am sure will quickly become a firm favourite.''
The player sought out Paul Gascoigne's advice about the Scottish game and also admitted the presence of another Boro old boy, Derek Whyte, at Pittodrie helped him make up his mind.
qDUNDEE United have made a move for St Mirren goalkeeper Alan Combe. In addition, Tannadice manager Tommy McLean looks set to land the former Scotland Under-21 cap for nothing.
Combe, who signed from Cowdenbeath for #30,000 in 1993, can walk away from Love Street for free once his contract expires on June 30 and United have offered him a two year deal.
Said Combe: ''I would be going to Tannadice as No.2 behind Sieb Dijkstra, but I would be looking to force my way into the first team. My only disappointment is that St Mirren would not get any money for me if I did move on.''
Saints manager Tony Fitzpatrick fears Combe's departure could signal an exodus of players leaving Love Street for free.
Barry McLaughlin and Paul Fenwick are also out of contract, along with the only other keeper Derek Scrimgour. Fitzpatrick said: ''It's a system that is crippling clubs like us. It is becoming impossible to keep our best players.''
United defender Mark Perry looks set to head to Huddersfield Town next week for talks. Perry is out of contract and has been targeted by Aberdeen and the English first division club. He will be one of several United players leaving, including Steven Pressley and Gary McSwegan.
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