Now, with player trading such a crucial part of increasing revenue, teams are beginning to hold their own in the transfer market and demand more realistic values for their star men, especially those teams who don't have the clout of finances of Celtic and Rangers.
A number of Premiership stars outwith the Old Firm may view this summer as the one they get their move, whether it be to one of the Glasgow giants, down south or abroad.
The likes of Hearts, Hibs and Aberdeen all have key assets who could fetch a pretty penny in the transfer window, making the coming weeks and months fascinating with regards to player reading and recruitment.
It may also show how far Premiership clubs have come in terms of the transfer fees they manage to eke out of their star players.
We have already taken a look at the 12 most valuable Premiership players and, unsurprisingly, the list was made up of Celtic and Rangers players.
Now, using Transfermarkt’s valuation of Scottish Premiership stars which is, admittedly, not nearly 100 per cent accurate, we look at who the league’s most expensive stars are that don’t play for the Old Firm.
The list of ten is somewhat surprising, both in terms of valuations and the personnel who make up the top ten.
Scroll down and click through for the list.

1. 12. Carljohan Eriksson - £720k - Dundee United
A Finnish international signed in January but is yet to make his Dundee United debut. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group

2. 11. Stephen Kingsley - £720k - Hearts
One of the most consistent defenders in the league, playing in the centre of a back three or four for the team who finished third. Chipped in with a number of goals as well. Photo: Ross Parker - SNS Group

3. 10. Christian Doidge - £720k - Hibs
A torrid season for the Welshman. He started just seven games due to a mixture of injury and what seemed like falling out of favour. There was talk of a move to Dundee. Photo: Paul Devlin - SNS Group

4. 9. Josh Sims - £810k - Ross County
Quite the coup from the Staggies to land the former Southampton star. Only managed one appearance but could go on to become a key player next season. Photo: Craig Foy - SNS Group