Exit strategy Murray Davidson on verge of Saints departure

COURIER SPORT understands that highly-rated St Johnstone star Murray Davidson is on the verge of clinching a move down south.

The dynamic midfielder has been on the radar of a host of clubs, with Rangers and several sides in the English Championship thought to be keen to secure his signature on a pre-contract.

Perth chairman Steve Brown has fought tooth and nail to keep the 24-year-old and had offered him a lucrative new deal.

However, the lure of the big money paid by sides south of the border and the chance to play at a higher level has proved too strong and a deal could be done in the next few days.

Former Saints boss Derek McInnes is known to be a long-term admirer of the player and his current side, Bristol City, is almost certainly one of the teams linked with Davidson.

However, it is understood that with other clubs still showing firm interest, his ultimate destination remains in the balance.

Davidson is contracted to St Johnstone until the summer and it is unlikely that the club would let their prize asset leave in this transfer window unless the price was right.

nrobertson@thecourier.co.uk