Hamilton warn clubs over fees after Lewis Ferguson's Aberdeen move
An initial price has been set for the midfielder after a tribunal hearing
Hamilton have warned that clubs need clarification over compensation fees after being sworn to secrecy over their award for Lewis Ferguson's transfer to Aberdeen.
A Scottish Professional Football League tribunal decided the fee for the 18-year-old's summer move on Monday after the clubs were unable to agree a deal.
Neither club has been able to reveal the amount but reports claim the initial price has been set at between £200,000 and £250,000 with the potential to increase depending on Ferguson's progress. Hamilton wanted a seven figure fee and claimed the Dons offered £100,000.
Accies have vowed to continue with their youth set-up, which has recently produced internationals such as James McArthur and James McCarthy, but feel other clubs should know what they are entitled to before investing in their academies.
In a statement, Accies chairman Ronnie MacDonald said: "Due to the terms and conditions on confidentiality covered by SPFL rules of procedure we are unable to publish details of the award, or indeed our opinion of it. A summary of the tribunal's decision will be circulated to us in due course, at which point I hope we will be permitted to comment thereon.
"We acknowledge and thank the members of the tribunal for their diligence and efforts.
"We believe that the guidelines used in making (the) decision should be made available for public and media scrutiny.
"Various reports have implied that a low compensation figure would jeopardise our commitment to developing young players through our academy. (The) decision only makes us more determined to continue with our ethos of opportunity and to have the most productive academy in the country.
"However, other clubs trying to promote youth development must be made aware of the guidelines and rules now applicable to compensation cases. They must be informed of all the facts when considering whether they can afford to invest in youth development.''
Aberdeen had earlier declared themselves "satisfied'' with the outcome of the hearing