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Emerging Talent Bilalovic Joins the Dons
Swedish youth international Kenan Bilalović is the Dons eighth summer signing.
The 20-year-old winger arrives from IFK Värnamo on a five-year contract for an undisclosed fee, subject to international clearance and VISA formalities.
“We’re delighted Kenan has chosen Aberdeen as the next step in his promising career”, Dons boss Jimmy Thelin said.
“Although he had a couple of other options across the continent, when we spoke to him about Aberdeen, he was excited about what we are striving to achieve here.
“We will work hard with Kenan to develop him for the future, and he will need time to adapt to a new environment, however we are excited about his potential.
“His arrival is a further example of the recent expansion to our scouting network. Our ability to be the club of choice in these markets is being solidified and the positive changes and investment is beginning to deliver real benefits.
“We know we still have work to do between now and the end of the window to add strikers to our squad and maybe in one or two other areas as well.”
The left-sided winger, whose family are originally from Bosnia, has been part of the IFK Värnamo squad for the last three years, and spent the end of last season on loan at Skövde AIK.
Despite there being a variety of options across Europe on offer to Kenan, the opportunity to be part of the manager’s long-term project here at Aberdeen was a key driver in the youngster committing to Pittodrie until 2030.
He said: “It feels good to be here. I’m really excited to meet the players. I met the manager and the coaches at the training ground, and I’ve been given a great first impression by everyone.
“It was an easy decision to come to Aberdeen. The manager is a really good coach, he knows what he wants to do and how he wants to achieve it.
“It’s an opportunity for me to show my skills and continue my development. The tempo will suit me well. I know it will be physical and fast here in Scotland, but I am at my peak fitness level, so I am ready for it.
“I know the atmosphere is good at the stadium, it gives you adrenaline on the pitch so I am looking forward to playing in front of the fans.”