The Tractor Boys had been linked with the Scotland under-21 star last year, while boss Mick McCarthy was also rumoured to be interested in McLean when he was in charge of Wolves.
McLean last signed a contract shortly after he broke into the first team in 2010, so whatever an English club can offer him would represent a significant increase. It hasn't been revealed whether he has been offered - or rejected - a new deal to stay at Saints, but if clubs down south are interested it's likely he'd turn down a new deal.
It would be very disappointing to lose such a talented player for free when we were looking good for a transfer fee this time last year, but we may well be due some form of compensation which would help soften the blow.
Story source: The Scottish Sun
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