St Johnstone have confirmed the season-long loan signing of Brighton and Hove Albion talent Lars Dendoncker – but Deadline Day exits are set to provide huge blows.
Captain Jason Kerr – who lifted the League Cup and Scottish Cup last season with Saints – has departed for Wigan Athletic and the Brighton prospect comes in on loan as a replacement. But there could be a further blow to come, with Ali McCann set for a move to Preston North End for little over £1 million.
The Belgian is moving to Perth. (Photo by Sergio Lopez/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
A statement on St Johnstone’s signing on Dendoncker reads: “The Football Club is delighted to announce the season-long loan signing of Brighton central defender, Lars Dendoncker. Lars came through the ranks of the famed Club Brugge academy before joining the Seagulls last year.
“The 20-year-old Belgian youth international is highly regarded and is the brother of Wolves midfielder, Leander. Credited with having pace and power, Lars is delighted to move to McDiarmid Park.”
Manager Callum Davidson could lose two of his best players, Kerr and McCann, for less than £2 million. A Wigan statement on Kerr reads: “The 24-year-old has played over 100 games for the Saints and captained his side to a Scottish Cup and Scottish League Cup double earlier this year.
“It was form that helped the Edinburgh-born centre back earn recognition in the Scottish Premiership Team of the Season. Kerr has played over 200 senior games and adds further strength to Leam Richardson’s defence after completing his Deadline Day move.”
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