Aberdeen manager Derek McInnes intends to assemble a bigger squad for next season’s campaign after seeing his side’s Premiership title challenge fade over the closing stretch.
McInnes felt his playing resources were not sufficient enough over the final few weeks of the season, which contributed to the Reds losing six of their final eight matches.
Bournemouth attacker Jayden Stockley and Swindon Town’s Miles Storey, who spent last season on loan at Caley Thistle, have already been snapped up on pre-contract agreements.
McInnes could strengthen his attacking options further with the club linked with a move for Derby County’s Irish attacker Conor Sammon.
The 29-year-old, whose contract expires this summer, spent the season on loan at Sheffield United, scoring six goals in 33 appearances.
The Republic of Ireland international spent three years at Kilmarnock before joining Wigan Athletic in a three-and-a-half-year deal in 2011.
The Dons have also been linked with midfielder Stuart Bannigan, who has rejected a new deal with Partick Thistle.
Recruiting another goalkeeper is a priority for McInnes but it is understood the Dons have failed in a bid to sign 23-year-old Bournemouth stopper Ryan Allsop.
The Aberdeen manager, however, is determined to build a squad capable of dealing with the demands of European football and three domestic competitions.
He said: “The squad was stretched over the last few weeks of the season.
“We have to recognise how important the January transfer window is. It is equally as important as the summer transfer window.
“We were stretched and I think that played a part in recent performances and results. How big a squad you have is a dilemma for most managers.
“You have to get the most out of the finances you have to work with.
“We have worked with a tighter squad, especially over the last six months. But when we had four or five players injured at the same time it really did stretch us.
“We tried to use what we had but it is about getting that balance right that you have got enough players to fulfil what you want to do.
“But, at the same time, it is about bringing in quality players who can make a difference to the starting XI as well as good squad players to provide a real level of competition.”
