Aberdeen will hold talks over a new deal with defender Davide Grassi next week. The 24-year-old Italian, who is out of contract at Pittodrie, had been offered a six-month deal but is holding out for a longer stay.

Aberdeen director of football Willie Miller told BBC Scotland: "Talks have gone well.

"Davide is planning to come over next week for further discussions and I'm hopeful of finalising the deal next week or the week after."

Grassi suffered a triple cheekbone fracture in September but played on with a protective mask.

"We were very impressed with Davide's commitment to us last season," said Miller.

"He showed great commitment, even with the facial injury he received, and we hope to keep him here on a longer deal."

Boss Mark McGhee admitted that it was only Grassi's form in the latter stages of the season that persuaded him to offer the six-month deal.