As reported before Christmas, Old Firm youth scouts have been monitoring him on a regular basis, while the likes of Hearts and English Premiership giants Spurs have also sent representatives to see the big midfielder in action.

And, while McDonald would be a long way away from first-team squad status at either Ibrox or Parkhead, there have been signs both would like to add him to their payroll this summer.

Replies to any enquiries about the crop of promising youngsters at Dens Park have been put on hold while attention was given to the major restructuring of the club’s finances that was announced earlier this week.

With, however, new chief executive Davie MacKinnon now in his post and a manager, be it Rae or someone else, likely to be in place in another week at the latest, thoughts will be turning to moulding a squad for next season.

Definitely on his way out is Aberdeen-bound goalkeeper Derek Soutar, but, while wage cuts mean other experienced players may also leave, when it comes to the kids, Dundee may not be so willing to do business.

Former Dundee defender Steven Tweed could be in the opposition ranks at Dens next term. Tweed, who had been offered training facilities by close friend Craig Brewster at Dundee United after ending a spell in Japan, is set to join relegated Livingston.

Meanwhile, fans’ trust Dee 4 Life are holding an open meeting at the Dundee Social Club in Thistle Street at 11.15 am tomorrow to allow their members to discuss the way forward for them following this week’s major developments.

Today’s scheduled meeting of the 10 First Division clubs at Clyde’s Broadwood Stadium has been delayed until the start of next week.