Aberdeen announced the signing of 20-year-old left-back Emmanuel Gyamfi for an undisclosed fee from Bundesliga 2 side Schalke. Aberdeen FC stated that Gyamfi “brings pace, technical ability and a keen eye for goal.” The German youth international joins the Scottish Cup holders on a four-year contract following a loan move to Dutch second division side VVV Venlo last season. While Gyamfi’s stats aren’t breathtaking, he does seem to bring much-needed pace to the left-back position and is a strong attacking presence, which will put pressure on Graeme Shinnie’s place in the starting lineup. He is, however, able to play a number of positions, including left wing and the right fullback position, exhibiting excellent versatility and making him an essential utility player, at the very least.
Aberdeen have also announced their fourth signing of the season in the form of 26-year-old striker Kusini Yengi. This signing marks the 3rd Australian to sign for the Dons this window. Kusini, the older brother of Livingston striker Tete Yengi, joins on a free following the conclusion of his contract at Portsmouth after a disappointing injury-laden season. The out-of-form striker joins after a season of 0 goal involvements in 14 appearances, but has previously managed 13 goals in 31 appearances in the 2023/2024 season and currently sits at 6 goals in just 8 national team appearances. The striker position is a must fill following the loss of Kevin Nisbet, who has returned to his parent club. The performances of Peter Ambrose have been unconvincing, while Ester Sokler has suffered several injuries and struggles to stay fit. Yengi will look to rediscover his earlier form and cement himself as a first-team regular; however, I would not be surprised to see Aberdeen bring in another more consistent striker.
Hibs’ second signing of the season comes in the form of 29-year-old Raphael Sallinger. The Austrian shot stopper joins from Austrian Bundesliga side TSV Hartberg for an undisclosed fee following a significant contribution to the club’s 12 clean sheets in his 38 appearances this season. This signing is vital for Hibs’ ambitions of retaining 3rd place and applying pressure next season. In the earlier stages of the previous campaign, between the sticks appeared to be a key weakness that cost them significantly, however, since Josef Bursik was dropped in exchange for Jordan Smith, their fortunes changed. Sallinger does seem to have been brought in as the number 1 choice, but Smith will continue to apply pressure for the spot as he did successfully on Bursik.
Falkirk have announced the signing of seasoned professional Scott Bain on a one-year deal. The 33-year-old is Falkirk’s first signing of the season as they prepare for their first Premiership season since 2010. Scott Bain previously spent seven years at Celtic, winning seven league titles, three Scottish Cups, and four League Cups, as well as making 108 appearances for Dundee over four years. Bain will most likely replace Nicky Hogarth in the starting team. The addition of Bain shows excellent intent from the newly promoted side as they aim to at least retain their premiership status; however, the side definitely requires more recruitment. With Bain only committing to a one-year contract, it is likely that in the event of a Falkirk relegation, he will not be sticking around.
22-year-old Rangers academy product Ross McCausland has been the target of interest from three clubs, including Basel, OH Leuven, and FC Cincinnati. All clubs would prefer a permanent move for the youngster with just two years remaining on his Rangers contract. If he were to leave this window, Rangers should demand a minimum of £5 million and should be in no rush to sell the young talent, as his value may continue to rise if he establishes himself in the Rangers starting team.
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