Pressley backs Dundee's Graham for Premier League

Dundee’s Luke Graham looks dejected at full time of a William Hill Premiership match between Dundee and Heart of Midlothian at Dens Park, on January 11, 2026SNS

Luke Graham has been linked with Rangers and Celtic, among other clubs

Manager Steven Pressley has backed in-demand Dundee defender Luke Graham to play in the Premier League and represent Scotland.

The Scottish Premiership club reportedly rejected a club-record offer for the 22-year-old centre-back, who is contracted until the end of next season, in January.

Rangers and Celtic have been linked with Graham after a standout season at Dens Park, and his manager acknowledged it is "natural" he will be in demand.

"Some of his performances, and I mean this, have been incredible over the last two or three months," former Scotland defender Pressley said.

"He's playing at such a high standard. I worked with [Everton defender] Jarrad Branthwaite during my time at Carlisle and I thought he was an exceptional young talent. I put Luke right up there next to him.

"Listen, I think he needs a number of steps still on his journey but there is no doubt, in my opinion, that Luke Graham can be playing in the English Premier League."

Why is Graham in demand?

The left-footed Scotland under-21 international has been a consistent presence at the back for Dundee, starting 25 of their 26 league matches.

The academy product is in the top 10 in the Premiership when it comes to many defensive metrics.

He ranks third for duels won, winning an impressive 66% of his battles, while also sitting in the top six for clearances and blocks.

Pressley believes his ability will see him become a full international, while his current form, according to his club manager, is enough to be considered for Scotland's World Cup squad.

"If Steve Clarke phoned me and said to me 'what do you think?', I would say 'yes, I would consider him'.

"There's a number of friendlies coming up and I think he should be a consideration. I do. I think his form has been that good over the last three months.

"He's obviously not got the experience but he's playing at the height of his game just now.

"I think his performances against the likes of Rangers and Celtic have been again at such a high level that he should be a consideration."

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