Aberdeen have won the race to land former Scotland star Craig Bryson – leaving a host of clubs frustrated.
The Pittodrie side went big on making the Derby County midfielder their fourth signing of the summer and he will move north on a two-year deal next month.
Bryson, 32, had a host of offers but has decided to return to Scotland and switch to Pittodrie.
He knocked back a contract extension at Pride Park and a rival offer from Championship new boys Luton Town.
Frank Lampard was keen to keep Bryson at Derby County but Chelsea’s pursuit of their club legend to become their next manager proved to be a major bonus for Derek McInnes.
The former Scotland midfielder had also met with Hearts boss Craig Levein, was wanted by Hibs and was also offered a pre-contract from former club Kilmarnock when Steve Clarke was still in charge.
Aberdeen manager McInnes has been working on the deal for several weeks and is delighted to finally get his top summer target.
Bryson will be a direct replacement for captain Graeme Shinnie who, ironically, made the opposite move to Derby on freedom of contract earlier this month.
Aberdeen are still in talks to bring Max Lowe back on loan from Derby County next season, although Rangers also remain interested.
Bryson, who is still recovering from injury, is hoping to make his competitive debut next month when Aberdeen kick off their Europa League bow against Finish side RoPS Rovaniemi.
McInnes has already signed Ash Taylor, Curtis Main and Welsh winger Ryan Hedges.
He is also looking to add more signings before that European opener.
