Now, with player trading such a crucial part of increasing revenue, teams are beginning to hold their own in the transfer market and demand more realistic values for their star men, especially those teams who don't have the clout of finances of Celtic and Rangers.
A number of Premiership stars outwith the Old Firm may view this summer as the one they get their move, whether it be to one of the Glasgow giants, down south or abroad.
The likes of Hearts, Hibs and Aberdeen all have key assets who could fetch a pretty penny in the transfer window, making the coming weeks and months fascinating with regards to player reading and recruitment.
It may also show how far Premiership clubs have come in terms of the transfer fees they manage to eke out of their star players.
We have already taken a look at the 12 most valuable Premiership players and, unsurprisingly, the list was made up of Celtic and Rangers players.
Now, using Transfermarkt’s valuation of Scottish Premiership stars which is, admittedly, not nearly 100 per cent accurate, we look at who the league’s most expensive stars are that don’t play for the Old Firm.
The list of ten is somewhat surprising, both in terms of valuations and the personnel who make up the top ten.
Scroll down and click through for the list.

9. 4. Ryan Porteous - £900k - Hibs
A divisive figure within Scottish football but his quality cannot be doubted. One of the best defenders at progressing the ball. Once the discipline side of his game is worked on, he will go from strength to strength. Photo: Paul Devlin - SNS Group

10. Lewis Ferguson - £1.8m - Aberdeen
Another player who is likely to have plenty of interest this window and could leave Pittodrie. The 22-year-old was one of the few positives from Aberdeen’s season, scoring 16 goals, playing in different midfield roles. Photo: Paul Devlin - SNS Group

11. 2. Kevin Nisbet - £2.25m - Hibs
The striker is undergoing rehab after suffering an anterior cruciate ligament in his knee which ruled him out for nine months. After a brilliant start at Easter Road which prompted interest from Birmingham his goals dried up somewhat but still showed himself to be a very good football player. Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group

12. 1. Josh Doig - £2.7m - Hibs
Had a brilliant 2020/21 campaign but found it more difficult this past season. Was still nominated for the PFA Scotland Young Player of the Year and is expected to have transfer interest this summer. Photo: Ewan Bootman - SNS Group

