Dante Polvara poised for new Aberdeen contract as Jimmy Thelin aims to ringfence fan favourite

The American midfielder is one of the key Pittodrie players who is out-of-contract at the end of the season

Aberdeen are set to open contract talks with Dante Polvara and several others of their Scottish Cup-winning squad after the transfer window closes.

The influential midfielder is one of the Pittodrie players who is out-of-contract at the end of the season.

The American is a key member of Jimmy Thelin’s squad and the Dons will look to extend his current deal.

The 25-year-old, who is a fans’ favourite, is also known to be happy at Aberdeen.

Polvara is now getting up to top gear and full fitness after coming back from serious injury last season.

He has already made an impression off the bench in the opening games against Hearts and Celtic.

Polvara didn’t come on against Morton in the Premier Sports Cup win on Saturday but that was more of a precaution as he had been sick during the week.

He will be very much part of the plans for Thursday night’s Europa League first-leg play-off with FCSB at Pittodrie.

The Dons have already opened talks with winger Shayden Morris, who is also out-of-contract this summer.

He has been the subject of several failed bids from Luton Town in recent weeks.

Those contract talks are also set to be pushed on after the transfer window closes.

Captain Graeme Shinnie, Ester Sokler and Ryan Duncan are other Aberdeen players who are in the final year of their contract.

Aberdeen also have Adil Aouchiche on-loan from Sunderland.

They have the option to buy him for a club record £1.5 million come the end of the season.

Slobodan Rubezic is also out-of-contract but is expected to complete a move to Polish side Korona Kielce.