And, if Miller is to head to the Granite City, the Dons will have to find cash from somewhere to meet United’s demands and the player’s six-figure salary.

In the past, big-earners leaving Tannadice have done so with sizeable pay-offs in their hippers — Pittodrie striker Stevie Crawford is a prime example — but, as of David Fernandez’s departure for Kilmarnock last week, those days are gone.

That means United will refuse to hand players a lump sum to make up for any wage cut they have to take by going. Despite that, however, there remains a slim chance of a deal being done with Aberdeen in the next few hours, especially after Crawford completed his on-off move to Dunfermline this afternoon.

If one is, the big question will be who the man heading to Tayside is — Steve Lovell and Richie Byrne have been mentioned, but neither are on Craig Brewster’s wanted list and will not be part of any package.

Meanwhile, after the recent improvement in results, the first-team squad at Tannadice have been given a four-day break.

When they report back on Monday, defender Lee Mair is expected to join in training following his recent knee trouble.

The problem for Alex, though, was that the clubs who employ his main targets wanted replacements in before they would do business with Dundee.

“It could be a late night, because I am waiting for news of other deals to go through before I can proceed with the business I want to do,” he said.

“I understand the situation, but I am still determined to bring someone in, so I have made contact about another player just in case. Obviously, there are no guarantees, but, right now, I still believe I can get a player who would make a real impact in our team.”

As usual in advance of anything concrete being done, Alex was not naming any of the men involved, but former Clyde striker Alex Williams has been linked after returning from a short spell in Australia.

Leaving Dens today was local boy Stephen McNally, who has been released from his contract and is expected to join Second Division Peterhead. The full-back was one of the players told they were free to find a new club just before the season started.

Meanwhile, even without new signings, the Dundee squad has been bolstered by skipper Bobby Mann confirming his return to fitness with a goal in a closed-door friendly against Stirling Albion last night.

Also involved were Danny Griffin and Derek Lyle, both of whom need match practice.

While most clubs will have a free weekend as international fixtures take centre stage, a large chunk of the Dark Blues squad will be on duty on Saturday for another closed-door game. This time, Rangers will provide the opposition.