DEREK McINNES may have freed up space in his budget by culling several senior members of his squad but the Aberdeen manager insists he is still not able to pay transfer fees.

The departures leave the Pittodrie club short in several areas and they have been linked with Willo Flood of Dundee United and St Johnstone's Murray Davidson. However, any moves are still some way off. "We are speaking to people but we're a bit away from confirming anything," said McInnes, who hailed the club's decision to upgrade the pitch. "We'll look at all areas, whether it's England, abroad or within our own shores. It's just about bringing good players to the club and making Aberdeen an attractive proposition.

"It is likely to be free transfers, but if there was a young player available for a fee then I might be able to make a case to the board. We won't be playing fees for older players."