Falkirk have firmly rejected multiple transfer bids from Dundee United for their vice-captain Brad Spencer. Manager John McGlynn has publicly dismissed the offers as 'embarrassing' and confirmed the 30-year-old midfielder is not for sale, as reported by the Falkirk Herald this week.
Dundee United, managed by Jim Goodwin, made at least three separate attempts to sign Spencer during this transfer window. All bids were six-figure sums that Falkirk's hierarchy immediately turned down. McGlynn did not hold back in his assessment, stating the proposals fell far short of the club's valuation for a player who still has at least two years remaining on his contract. "They're miles off, they're embarrassing (bids)," McGlynn said. "The guy must have been embarrassed when he was writing these offers, he had to be."
Why is Brad Spencer so important to Falkirk?
Spencer's value to Falkirk extends beyond his on-field contributions as a central midfielder. He serves as the team's vice-captain and represents a key component of McGlynn's squad structure. The manager has a long-standing relationship with the player, having originally signed him for Raith Rovers when Spencer was a part-time player at Forfar Athletic. That history gives McGlynn unique insight into Spencer's development and current importance.
Last season, Spencer played a significant role in helping Falkirk finish above Dundee United in the Premiership's top six. His experience and leadership qualities are considered vital for a fan-owned club competing in Scotland's top division. With Falkirk currently sitting 10th in the Premiership with just one point from their opening two matches, retaining core players like Spencer becomes even more important. The team has yet to score this season while conceding twice, leaving them with a -2 goal difference.
What does this mean for Falkirk's transfer strategy?
Falkirk's rejection of substantial bids signals their determination to build continuity rather than cash in on assets. As a fan-owned entity, the club operates with different financial pressures than some rivals, allowing them to prioritize sporting objectives over immediate monetary gain. McGlynn and football director Paul Smith have made it clear they view Spencer as fundamental to their plans.
The manager has already held a private conversation with Spencer about the situation, though he declined to reveal specifics. "I've had a conversation, but it's private," McGlynn stated. This direct communication helps maintain trust between player and club during what can be a distracting period. With the transfer window approaching its closure, Falkirk's stance appears unwavering.
How does this affect Falkirk's immediate fixtures?
The timing of these bids comes just before a challenging run of matches for Falkirk. This Saturday they face Celtic away, with the league leaders currently five points ahead in the title race. Losing a key midfielder like Spencer ahead of such a fixture would have been particularly disruptive.
Falkirk's early season form shows room for improvement, with their current record standing at zero wins, one draw, and one loss from two games. You can track their progress and upcoming matches on our fixtures page. The team's recent form reads DL, indicating they need stability rather than upheaval in their squad composition.
What happens next for Brad Spencer and Falkirk?
John McGlynn expects Spencer to remain a Falkirk player well beyond the transfer deadline. The club's public stance leaves little room for negotiation, effectively ending Dundee United's pursuit unless they return with a dramatically improved offer. Spencer's contract situation provides Falkirk with strong leverage, as he is tied to the club until at least 2028.
Falkirk now turn their full attention to football matters, beginning with the trip to face Celtic. The squad details and current statistics are available on our squad and stats pages. McGlynn will want Spencer fully focused on helping Falkirk improve their league position, starting with collecting points against the league leaders. The club's firm handling of this transfer interest demonstrates their commitment to building a competitive Premiership side around established core players.
