Millwall had a representative watching Kevin Nisbet continue his impressive goalscoring heroics for Aberdeen last weekend amid speculation around the in-form striker's future.
Nisbet’s recent performances for the Dons have fuelled suggestions about a permanent move to Pittodrie after a successful spell in the north-east.
However, Millwall manager Alex Neil has stated that the 28-year-old will be assessed at The Den once his season-long loan concludes.
The former Hibernian talisman netted five goals in six games before the March international break, earning a recall to the Scotland squad for their UEFA Nations League play-off clashes against Greece. He then carried on his clinical touch by scoring a double as Aberdeen beat Motherwell 4-1 on Saturday.
When asked about the possibility of signing Nisbet permanently, Aberdeen boss Jimmy Thelin remained measured in his response.
“If you ask if we like Kevin, yes we do,” said Thelin. “That’s all I can say. He is not our player even though he is here right now so it is not for me to say that kind of thing. We focus on the moment right now.
"You can talk about Kevin’s goals and of course that is important.
“However, also in winning the ball back Kevin is helping the defence. He is also pressing from behind and creating transitions for us but still arriving in the scoring chances.
“That is how Kevin has grown as a player this season. The best part is when you work closely with players and see them grow and also get the results with their individual parts inside the game.”
Read more:
- Thelin faces Aberdeen selection dilemma with more key men sidelined
- Scottish Cup semi-final draw confirmed as Hampden awaits
Neil has also poured cold water on the idea of Nisbet remaining in Scotland beyond this season... at least for now.
While confirming that discussions about the squad’s future are ongoing, he made it clear that Nisbet will be returning to Millwall at the end of his loan spell.
“Steve Gallen (director of football) was up watching at the weekend, so he’s seen the two goals that he scored. I believe he met him after the game,” Neil told NewsAtDen.
“We’re still keeping track of all our players that are out on loan, irrespective of whether it’s Kevin or anybody else. Kevin’s our player, we’re glad he’s doing well, and he’ll be back like every other player in the summer, and then we’ll take it from there.”
For Aberdeen, securing Nisbet’s services beyond the summer may prove difficult, especially given his return to form and international recognition.
Any potential deal will likely depend on Nisbet’s own ambitions, wage demands, and whether Millwall are open to negotiations.
As things stand, it appears Aberdeen fans will need to make the most of the striker’s contributions while they still can.
