Aberdeen winger Gary Mackay-steven is to take his time deciding his future after holding talks with New York City FC – but Aberdeen should be looking for a swift resolution.
The winger has been offered a deal by the MLS side and is out of contract in the summer.
GMS could still remain at Pittodrie beyond the summer but the delay in making a decision could hinder Aberdeen’s plans to replace him.
With NYCFC’s season getting underway in March, the Americans would ideally want the winger to arrive as soon as possible.
However, with the Dons on the brink of a title race they won’t want to lose him without a replacement.
Mackay-steven had been out of action since suffering a serious head injury and made his return in last weekend’s 1-1 Scottish Cup draw with Stenhousemuir.
A move to MLS would suit GMS’ style but the timing doesn’t really suit either side.
The winger has scored six times and added two assists this season in 20 appearances and is an important player for the Dons.
Adding Greg Stewart will ease some of the strain of potentially losing GMS but a speedy answer would really help McInnes.
Knowing whether he will have to replace the winger come the summer could have a big impact on other transfer plans.
The likelihood is that GMS moves on but he needs to let Aberdeen know his intentions as soon as possible.