Scott Brown to leave Celtic and sign for Aberdeen

Scott Brown has signed for Aberdeen on a pre-contract deal after 14 years at Celtic.

The 35-year-old Celtic captain will join the Pittodrie club this summer on a two-year deal in a player-coach role.

Brown, who made more than 600 appearances for Celtic, said he is “eagerly anticipating the next chapter in his illustrious footballing career”.

He said: “There is no doubt I had a lot to deliberate when deciding my next steps, particularly after enjoying fourteen successful years at Celtic. However, the opportunity to join Aberdeen, a club entering an exciting new period with my former team-mate Stephen now at the helm, was one I couldn’t pass up.

“Once this season concludes, I’m looking forward to joining Stephen, the playing and coaching staff and everyone at Aberdeen FC. I am totally committed to the challenge that lies ahead in meeting the ambitions of the club and its fans.

“I still feel I have got a lot to give, not only on the pitch, but in a broader capacity as I embark on my coaching journey. I will be relentless in my quest for success for Aberdeen.”

New Aberdeen boss Stephen Glass said he was thrilled the ex-Scotland skipper had agreed to join him in the north-east.

He said: “The opportunity to bring a player of Scott’s calibre, a leader who has more European appearances for Celtic than any other player, is a huge coup for me and for Aberdeen.

“His experience will be invaluable on the pitch and he is someone who will help set the standards we expect at this club.

“A born competitor, with a strong appetite to win, his hands-on approach and desire to nurture will hugely benefit the development of the young, emerging talent we have here.”