Aberdeen have formally asked St Mirren for permission to speak with manager Stephen Robinson, the 51-year-old Northern Irishman who guided the Buddies to cup glory this season.

Robinson, who led St Mirren to the League Cup and Scottish Cup semi-finals, is Aberdeen's latest candidate to replace caretaker boss Peter Leven. Aberdeen's recent form is poor, with only one win in eight league games and a heavy Scottish Cup defeat to Dunfermline. Leven took charge after Aberdeen sacked Jimmy Thelin in January.

Robinson's success with St Mirren, including a top-six finish last season, makes him an attractive option. However, Aberdeen are also considering other candidates, including former Mainz head coach Sandro Schwarz, who held talks in the city, and Eirik Horneland, who reportedly won't start until season's end. The club faces a crucial period to find a permanent manager to halt their decline.