Aberdeen FC today confirms it has reached agreement with Turriff United FC to transfer rising talent, Aaron Reid, who has signed a contract with the Dons which will officially be executed in January.

The 18-year-old striker, who brings a real physical presence, was previously in the AFC Youth Academy. Since leaving the Academy, Aaron has continued to develop and despite his young age, has really impressed this year in the Highland League with Turriff United. Aaron will continue to play matches for Turriff until his registration is transferred in January but will also continue training with the Dons on a full-time basis until then.

In recent years, Aaron featured for Hilton Boys Club and Cove Rangers U18s before COVID interrupted his career. Aaron then signed for Montrose before signing a two-year contract with Turriff United at the start of 2022.

Director of Football, Steven Gunn said: “It has been a patient journey back, but Aaron’s determination to play at the top level never waned and he returned to training with the club last week.

“Thanks to all at Turriff United with their help in reaching a positive outcome. Aaron’s pathway shows the door is never closed for young players and we’re delighted he sees Aberdeen as the place to continue his development, particularly considering other interest he had.”

Aaron is excited to see his hard work rewarded with a return to the Dons. He said: “I came into the AFC Youth Academy when I was nine, and then I was released when I was 15. I made it up to the U16 side but did not progress to the U18s.

“I pushed on and tried to better myself as a player and as a person and I have made it back.

“I am very grateful to all my coaches and team-mates who have helped me on my journey back to AFC.

“The first week at training has been tough on the old legs! Of course, training full-time, it was always going to be harder than anything I have done before but I will get used to it quickly. I just need to get my head down and work as hard as I can.

“I will continue to play for Turriff until the end of January and then we will see what the plan is for me after that. I’m very excited for this new chapter at Aberdeen.”