McInnes going to people he already knows is understandable. When the manager has the backing of AC, finances and a scouting team, there’s less need to be cautious and pragmatic for its own sake. That doesn’t mean a Devlin or a Barron-type isn’t useful, but we should be picky.

Trust is fine, but standards matter

To be fair, managers naturally turn to trusted faces. Familiarity buys a quicker settling-in period and a clearer idea of role and temperament. But trust can’t be the only metric. If we have the resources and data available, why accept mediocrity just because someone is known to the boss?

There’s a difference between signing a reliable squad player and signing someone because they’re safe. I’m all for the former. The latter won’t move us on, and that’s the point. We need recruits who raise the bar, not just meet it.

Quality over convenience

For a free, Devlin starts to look more acceptable — I can see the argument. But the question the club should ask is: is he the best option within our reach? If the answer is no, then patience and a proper search are warranted. This is where a strong scouting setup should be decisive.

We’ve built up standards from players’ bodies of work over time, not a single breakout season. That portfolio approach matters; it’s how you avoid one-hit wonders and how you build a squad that can sustain pressure across a campaign.

Creativity should be a priority

One clear need is more creativity. It’s not glamorous to sign someone who simply 'does a job' if that job lacks imagination on the ball. We need players who can unlock games, change tempo and provide something different when matches stagnate.

There’s still time in the window, so let’s not rush just to tick boxes. Give McInnes the freedom to bring in trusted staff, yes — but insist those additions actually improve the team. We should be aiming for signings who push the whole squad forward, not ones who merely keep things steady.

Written by Pieter Huistra: 24 July 2026

Tags: transfers