THE Dons have launched an ambitious bid to bring former St Johnstone striker Stevie May back to Scotland.

Reds boss Derek McInnes refuses to comment on transfer speculation.

But it’s understood talks have already opened with Sheffield Wednesday, aimed at persuading them to allow May to spend next season on loan with the Dons.

The move comes the day after McInnes confirmed in the Evening Express he was drawing up plans to build a squad capable of mounting an even stronger challenge for honours next term.

Landing May, pictured, who moved to Hillsborough from St Johnstone in a £800,000 deal last August, would certainly help.

May has struggled to reproduce the form that persuaded the Owls to sign him from Saints. He’s scored just seven goals in 39 matches for them.

But Dons boss McInnes has always been an admirer of the Scotland international, who made his debut against England last year.

May, 22, is also an admirer of McInnes and assistant boss Tony Docherty.

They were in charge of St Johnstone when the striker made his first team debut, aged just 16.

May has regularly spoken of his gratitude for the part the duo have played in helping him become one of the country’s top young players.

May said: “Derek gave me my debut for Saints at Airdrie when we had already won the First Division title.

“I scored a late goal.

“Derek would always talk to me and tell me what he wanted. It was the same with Tony Docherty. Their training was quality too. It’s no surprise they are doing such a good job at Aberdeen.”

May scored 20 goals last season for the Perth Saints.

His tally included the two goals that beat Aberdeen 2-1 in the Scottish Cup semi-final at Ibrox during the Perth side’s march to winning the trophy for the first time in their history.

May still has three years left on his contract with Sheffield but the English club have indicated they are keen to loan him out.