Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes has confirmed that Derby “have not ruled out” a Pittodrie return for left-back Max Lowe as he confirmed talks with Derby boss Frank Lampard over the defender.

Lowe really impressed during a spell on loan with the Dons last season and McInnes is keen to see him return to the Granite City.

EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - MAY 19: Max Lowe (L) of Aberdeen FC bundles Daryl Horgan of Hibernian FC over during the Ladbrokes Premiership match between Hibernian and Aberdeen at Easter Road on May 19, 2019 in Edinburgh, United Kingdom.

(Photo by Callum Landells/Getty Images)

McInnes admits it would be “naive” to think there isn’t any other interest but remains hopeful of getting Lowe back to Pittodrie.

“Derby have not ruled out us being an option for Max again next season,” McInnes told the Evening Express.

GLASGOW, SCOTLAND - APRIL 14: Odsonne Edouard of Celtic is challenged by Max Lowe of Aberdeen during the Scottish Cup semi-final between Aberdeen and Celtic at Hampden Park on April 14, 2019 in Glasgow, Scotland.

(Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)

“We speak to the manager, the chief executive and Max’s agent.

“It would be naive to think on the back of what Max has done for us over the season that other clubs are not interested.”

The left-back made 42 appearances for the Dons, scoring three times and contributing two assists.

ABERDEEN, SCOTLAND - FEBRUARY 10: Barry Maguire of Queen of the South tackles Max Lowe of Aberdeen during the Scottish Cup 5th Round match between Aberdeen and Queen of the South at Pittodrie Stadium on February 10, 2019 in Aberdeen, Scotland.

(Photo by Scott Baxter/Getty Images)

Rangers are also reportedly interested in signing Lowe, according to the Daily Record, so it could make for an interesting battle for his signature.

If McInnes can lure him back to Pittodrie for the new season then it would be a fantastic bit of business for the Dons.

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