Aberdeen fail in bid to land MLS star

Aberdeen are likely to have failed in their bid to sign Houston Dynamo midfielder Stuart Holden, after not being able to afford the US international’s wages.

Manager Mark McGhee had high hopes of signing the midfielder, who was born in Aberdeen before moving to the United States at the age of 10.

McGhee had originally targeted the midfielder, saying: “He is a good playmaking midfielder who is hard to pin down and has an eye for goal. Stuart definitely fits into the caliber of player we are looking to bring to the club.”

However, it seems a deal is unlikely now after McGhee told press: “It’s no surprise that he is attracting interest from bigger clubs, It’s likely we’ve missed the boat on that one now because there is no way we will be able to compete with the type of wages he is likely to be offered.

“It’s frustrating but that’s the world we live in”

Holden is set to become a free agent after his contract expires at the Robertson Stadium next month and is likely to make the move back to the U.K, but only if he his assured of first-team football to boost his chances of playing at next years World Cup in South Africa.

“I’m available on a free and I’ve already got a few options in Scotland and England. Moving back to the UK appeals but I have to make sure wherever I end up I’m playing every week.” said Holden.

“I have a big chance to play at the World Cup in the summer and don’t want to miss out on it by being at the wrong side.”

[Source: Evening Express]