We won’t break the bank for Franco

Jul 2 2009 by Paul Behan, Paisley Daily Express

ST MIRREN last night told left-back Franco Miranda to ‘get real’ over his wage demands if he wants to return to the club next season.

Express Sports understands the 24-year-old defender is holding out for a significant wage increase for next season and talks over a new deal have stalled.

And, while Saints have not given up hope of luring the talented Argentine back for a third consecutive season in Paisley, they insist they will not break the bank for any player.

St Mirren general manager Brian Caldwell said: “We are trying to get Franco back for next season.

“However it’s more complicated this year in that he is looking for an improved offer.

“An offer has been made to Franco and we feel it’s a good one.

“But we are some way away in terms of the wages.

“He has been looking for a much-improved contract.

“We are still having dialogue but, unless Franco can come back with a more realistic proposal, then I don’t think we’ll be able to agree a deal.”

Miranda has been on loan to Saints for the past two seasons and has become a firm favourite with supporters.

Express Sports understands the Buddies had hoped to bring the defender back to St Mirren Park on a permanent basis under freedom of contract.

But, last night, a new obstacle to the Miranda deal emerged when it was revealed his parent club back in Argentina – CAI – has exercised a two-year option on his contract.

And this means Saints could be forced to pay a compensation fee – as well as a hefty wage hike – if they want him to be part of their plans for the 2009/10 campaign.

Caldwell added: “We are keen to bring Franco back and he wants to continue playing in Europe.

“But, under the current financial climate in Scottish football with regards to TV money, we have to be careful about what we are doing.

“As yet, we have been unable to agree a deal with Franco.”

Miranda made himself an instant hero among the Saints faithful when he scored on his competitive debut at the beginning of the 2007/08 season during a 2-1 win over Inverness Caley Thistle at Love Street.

And, last season, he also chipped in with a goal against Hamilton Accies in a 2-1 win for the Buddies at New Douglas Park in October, followed by a goal at Ibrox against Rangers, when Saints lost 2-1 to Walter Smith’s men.

But his campaign was cut short in January when he succumbed to a cartilage problem in his left knee which required surgery.