Jimmy’s on trail of Dutch defender
Published:
DONS boss Jimmy Calderwood today said he won’t be forced into any panic buys.
But reports today claimed the Dons boss was on the trail of Dutch defender Tim Bakens.
The 6ft 4in centre half is said to be keen to make the move to Pittodrie.
The RKC Waalwijk defender is available on a free contract after rejecting a new deal from the club.
SPL rivals Rangers, Celtic and Dundee United all added to their squads this week, which puts added pressure on Calderwood as he attempts to make five more signings before the new season starts.
But the Aberdeen manager admitted it could take him longer than expected to capture his prime targets.
“I want to bring in players of quality and that can often take a bit of time,” said Calderwood.
“I could have three players on parade at Pittodrie tomorrow because there are guys out there who would crawl all the way to Aberdeen for the chance to play for this club.
“But I don’t want players who are coming here to simply make up the numbers.”
Calderwood reminded fans it took him several weeks to secure the signatures of Jamie Smith and Lee Miller, who are now two of the key men at Pittodrie.
“We had to be patient when we were pursuing Jamie and Lee, but that was rewarded in the end,” he said.
“We want to bring in more players of that quality, ones who would significantly improve the Aberdeen first team.
“I can understand some of our fans getting a little restless because other clubs have made signings.
“We have actually made signings as well, and one of those – Gary McDonald – is going to be a big hit in the SPL.
“We will sign others as well, all I can ask is for the fans to be patient for a wee while longer.
“We have identified our top targets, but completing deals isn’t as easy as it was a few years ago.
“Agents now tend to hold out in the hope of other clubs showing interest.
“We are also waiting for other clubs to make decisions about players, but most of the people involved are on holiday.
“Work is going on behind the scenes all of the time.”
Calderwood also expects find out this weekend if defender Alan Maybury plans to accept a new contract or quit and move back to England.
Readers' Comments
How many times have we heard the same old talk from the manqagement at pittodrie. Theres been a load of clubs made signings up and down the country are you going to tell these managers Mr calderwood that they havnt signed quality players. Plus how long does a holiday last for the last 3 to 4 weeks thats what we have been hearing from you the players we are interested in are on holiday.Spin us another Mr calderwood you are playing a game with the Aberdeen supporters and as far as i an see your the only club that is waiting to catch the players with talent/ I have news for you they have all been taken and signed up by manage ments who dont sit around and act a lot faster than you bunch of Turtles.
mike fyfe
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Jimmy im looking at your photograph they run in the evening express of you supposed to be calm how many mince pies did you have on your spanish holiday. Sign Nicaulie now and redan + Bakens or it wil be too late again and you will end up with going to siberian prison camps for your search for players. And Please Sign a goalkeeper who wont let in 58 goals the season comeing.
mike fyfe
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