Aberdeen have put their efforts to sign St Mirren midfielder Killian Phillips on hold after the Paisley club stood firm on their valuation. The Dons had contacted St Mirren about a permanent move for the 24-year-old Republic of Ireland international, but a fee could not be agreed, as reported by The Herald this week.
St Mirren's strong start to the season, sitting 3rd in the Premiership with two wins from two, has given them a solid platform in negotiations. Top scorer Killian Phillips has been central to that form, netting three goals in two appearances, including the winner against Hearts. The club's defensive record is also perfect, with zero goals conceded from their opening fixtures.
Why did the transfer talks break down?
Aberdeen were prepared to pay a fee in the region of £500,000 for Phillips. However, St Mirren value the player higher than that figure and were not prepared to sell for what they considered an undervalued offer. Phillips has one year remaining on his contract at the SMiSA Stadium, which complicates the financial picture. His impressive form this season, with four goals in seven games across all competitions, has only increased his worth in the eyes of the St Mirren board.
The situation is further nuanced by the managerial connection. Stephen Robinson, who left St Mirren for Aberdeen in March, was the manager who signed Phillips on a permanent deal for the Buddies. Robinson knows the player's qualities well from their time together in Paisley and from Phillips's previous loan spell at Aberdeen in 2024.
Where does Killian Phillips go from here?
With Aberdeen now likely to look elsewhere, the transfer window remains open for other suitors. St Mirren expect more interest in Phillips before the deadline. A Belgian club, Kortrijk, has been in touch but has not yet made a formal offer. Interest also exists from a German club and from several sides in the American MLS.
Phillips holds an American passport, which means he would not occupy an international roster spot for any MLS team, making him an attractive prospect. Clubs such as the New England Revolution, San Jose Earthquakes, and LA Galaxy are all reportedly interested. If a move does not materialise this summer, Phillips will be free to talk to interested clubs from January regarding a pre-contract agreement.
How does Calvin Ramsay fit into the St Mirren picture?
While one potential exit stalls, St Mirren have been active in adding to their squad. The club confirmed their tenth signing of the summer with the arrival of right-back Calvin Ramsay on a season-long loan from Liverpool. Ramsay, a former Aberdeen player, brings top-level experience. "We’re delighted to have a player of that calibre join us," said St Mirren's Craig McLeish. "He brings a lot of quality to the group. He can play that position in a number of different ways."
Ramsay enjoyed a full and intense pre-season under Liverpool's new manager, gaining valuable game time. His arrival bolsters a defence that has started the campaign perfectly, details of which are tracked on our stats page. The squad's depth will be tested soon, with a key fixtures clash against Motherwell at home this weekend.
What does this mean for St Mirren's season?
The decision to hold out for a higher fee for Phillips signals St Mirren's ambition. Currently third in the standings, the club is building on a positive foundation. Retaining a key scorer while adding quality like Ramsay strengthens their hand for the challenges ahead. The immediate focus shifts to the pitch and maintaining their 100% record when they host 4th-placed Motherwell. The outcome of the remaining transfer window, regarding Phillips and any further business, will shape the resources available for the campaign.
