Scottish Football Transfer News: EPL sides battle for Celtic star, Hearts near signing, new deal for Rangers ace, Aberdeen to avoid 'lazy recruitment'

The day has arrived, Scotland will face Ukraine at Hampden Park in the World Cup play-off.

The winner of this rearrange match due to the Russian invasion of Ukraine will progress to face Wales in Cardiff on Sunday.

Here are all the latest headlines, news and transfer speculation from around the SPFL:

EPL sides battle for Celtic starlet

A trio of English Premier League clubs are keen on highly-rated Celtic teenager Rory Mahady. The goalkeeper is nearing his 16th birthday when he can sign his first professional deal. Celtic want to keep him but will face stiff competition to do so with Manchester City and Tottenham Hotspur joining Leeds United in their pursuit of the Scotland Under-17 star. (Daily Record)

Dons recruitment plans

Aberdeen are looking to avoid “lazy recruitment” as they look to broaden their recruitment horizons. Jim Goodwin spoke of how a club the size of Aberdeen needs a director of football, head of recruitment and “army of scouts”. He said: “It's very easy to sign players from teams that you play against in your own league. I'm not saying we won't do that because sometimes it's worthwhile. But we have to be willing to go into Europe and South America. Ireland has been great for me too at St Mirren – there's no doubt about that.” (RedTV)

Patterson blow

Scotland have suffered a blow ahead of the crucial World Cup play-off with Ukraine after it was revealed Nathan Patterson will miss the match at Hampden Park. The Everton star “has run out of time a little bit for the first game”, according to Steve Clarke. Patterson had an operation on an ankle injury earlier this season. He could, however, return for the Wales game if Scotland win. (Various)

Thomson to leave Kelty

Former Hibs and Rangers star Kevin Thomson