Just in: Aberdeen completes their first summer signing as 22-year-old Shelbourne center-back signs three-year deal

Aberdeen have signed Gavin Molloy, a centre-back from Shelbourne FC, on a three-year agreement for an unknown amount.

The 22-year-old centre back arrives from the League of Ireland Premier Division side, where he has been a prominent player since his debut in 2022.

Molloy made 70 appearances for the club, including 22 in this season’s win over Waterford FC.

On signing the Dubliner, new Dons manager Jimmy Thelin stated, “Gavin has developed a growing reputation in Ireland.” He has outstanding versatility, a positive mindset, and conducts himself appropriately both on and off the pitch.

“Gavin is also a leader, something which is important for a strong and successful team, and it’s a characteristic, along with a hard-working attitude which is in the DNA of this club.”

Molloy said after joining the Dons: “It feels fantastic to officially be an Aberdeen player. As soon as I learned about the possibility, I wanted to put on the red shirt.

“After meeting with the club, I thought this was the proper step in my career. The club’s history and magnitude piqued my interest, and I was eager to join.

I had a nice interaction with the management. He had done extensive study on me and told me how I would fit in with the club, and he left a really positive impression.

“It’s a massive club, it seems to have a real family feel to it and I just can’t wait to get started.”