SPFL reconstruction plans set to fail (again), Celtic coach speaks out on future of two stars, Turkish giants want Hibs star, Easter Road favourite reveals Hearts interest - Scottish Premiership Rumour Mill

Friday’s Scottish football news and gossip

The sun setting over Hampden Park. Picture: SNS

SPFL eyes return date

The SPFL and SFA are looking to have Scottish footballers back in training by June 15 as they look toward trying to have next season start in early August. (Daily Record)

Clubs to kibosh reconstruction

Ann Budge will fall short of the backing she needs from clubs in League One and League Two with six teams set to vote against her reconstruction proposals. Budge needs 15 of the 20 clubs in the bottom two tiers to back the plan. (Daily Record)

Budge’s legal threat

Hearts chief Ann Budge has warned that she will have no option but to follow through on her threat of legal action if the Tynecastle club is left languishing in the Championship when the new season finally kicks off. (Evening News)

Budge calls for clarity

Scottish football clubs need to decide whether they have the wherewithal to see out next season or make it clear that they are looking to sit it out, according to Ann Budge, the woman who has been fighting to find a structure that will serve the needs of everyone. (The Scotsman)

Kennedy: Celtic want to keep stars

Celtic assistant John Kennedy insist the club will do whatever they can to keep wanted stars Kristoffer Ajer and Odsonne Edouard beyond this summer. (Daily Record)

Galatasaray want Porteous

Hibs defender Ryan Porteous is being monitored by Galatasaray as they consider a bid for the young centre-back. The Turkish giants have enquired about his availability and watched him play on several occasions. (The Herald)

Whittaker reveals Hearts interest

Steven Whittaker has revealed that Hearts tried to sign him in the summer of 2017 before he made his return to Hibs. (Daily Record)

Stendel needs new deal to stay

Daniel Stendel will have to consider reduced terms if he is to return as Hearts manager. There was a clause in the German’s former contract that effectively cut him loose should the Gorgie side slip out of the Premiership. (Evening News)

American investment in Hearts?

American businessman Foster Gillett revealed he wants to invest significant money in Hearts after attempting to gain control of the Edinburgh club. (Evening News)

McGinn ranks 2016 as career highlight

John McGinn still ranks his Scottish Cup triumph with Hibs as the pinnacle of his career despite his success in England and on the international scene. (Evening News)

Redknapp rubbishes Airdrie talk

Harry Redknapp has rubbished reports he is in talks to buy a controlling stake in Airdrieonians, saying he had a conversation with the chairman but any discussions won’t be going any further. (Scottish Sun)