Aberdeen sign 'highly-rated' German youth international Emmanuel Gyamfi

Aberdeen have signed German full-back Emmanuel Gyamfi, with the club saying they are delighted to have secured the signature of the ‘highly-rated’ young talent.

The 20-year-old has moved from Bundesliga 2 side Schalke 04, and agreed a four-year deal with the Dons.

Gyamfi came through Schalke’s academy and spent time with VVV-Venlo in the Eerste Divisie last season. The full-back, who is described as versatile and attacking, says he can’t wait to get started at his Scottish Cup-winning new side.

“I’m really happy to be here and so are my family, so I am ready to go,” he said.

“Now that everything is sorted, I can focus on pre-season, and I am going to work hard before training starts.

“I will give my best to help the team. I want to show the fans what I can do as this is a good club, and we all want to achieve even more than last season.

“It was nice to see all the fan celebrations after winning the cup. It motivates me to want to do it again as you can see how much they love Aberdeen.

“Obviously it’s a dream to play in Europe, on that stage. It can be challenging but we are going to be ready as a team after a strong pre-season.”

Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin said: “Emmanuel is a player we have been monitoring for some time. He possess all the attributes we are looking for in a modern full-back. He’s dynamic and has a great work ethic.

“His development at Schalke and his recent loan spell demonstrates his potential and we believe this will be the environment in which he can thrive.”