ALAN ARCHIBALD could send three of his Partick Thistle stars out on loan ahead of the new season.

SportTimes understands striker Mark McGuigan, keeper Ryan Scully and youngster Caolan McAleer, who spent last term at Arthurlie on loan, are earmarked for possible exits from Firhill this summer.

All three are unlikely to feature on a regular basis in Scotland's top flight next season and could be moved on to ensure they continue to play first-team football.

McGuigan has been linked with a move to Albion Rovers, but Jags would prefer him to move to a second-tier club.

This would allow him to be in the best shape to challenge for a place in Archibald's squad on his return.

Scully, who has signed a new one-year deal with the Jags, is behind Scott Fox and Paul Gallacher in the keeper pecking order while McAleer enjoyed a productive campaign in the Juniors.