Aberdeen FC have announced the signing of highly-rated 20-year-old left-back Emmanuel Gyamfi from Bundesliga 2 side Schalke 04, becoming the club’s third acquisition of the summer transfer window.
The German-born defender, who has Ghanaian heritage, joins the Scottish Premiership side on a four-year contract. The transfer fee remains undisclosed and is subject to international clearance and visa approvals.
Who Is Emmanuel Gyamfi?
Gyamfi is a versatile full-back who spent last season on loan at Dutch side VVV-Venlo, where he impressed in the Eerste Divisie with 31 appearances and two assists. A product of Schalke’s Knappenschmiede academy, he signed his first professional contract with the German club in 2024 and has long been viewed as a player with significant potential.
He brings pace, energy, and adaptability; able to operate as a full-back or winger on either flank.
Why Aberdeen Signed Him
Aberdeen manager Jimmy Thelin confirmed that Gyamfi had been on the club’s radar for some time:
“Emmanuel is a player we have been monitoring for a while. He’s dynamic, hardworking, and fits the profile of the modern full-back. His development at Schalke and loan spell in the Netherlands showed he’s ready for the next step.”
Gyamfi arrives as a direct replacement for Jack MacKenzie, who recently left Aberdeen to join English League One side Plymouth Argyle. Speaking to club media, Gyamfi expressed his excitement about the move:
“I’m really happy to be here, and so are my family. I’m ready to go. Now that everything is sorted, I can focus on pre-season and give my best for the team.”
The young defender said he was particularly inspired by the club’s Scottish Cup win and fan celebrations:
“Seeing how much the fans love the club after the Cup win motivated me. I want to be part of something like that.”
A Step Forward—for Club and Player
Gyamfi’s arrival adds tactical flexibility to Thelin’s squad ahead of a busy season that includes European competition. With three summer signings now confirmed Gyamfi, Nicolas Milanovic (Western Sydney Wanderers), and Nick Suman (Cove Rangers); Aberdeen look set to build on their recent domestic success.
The move also represents a significant leap for Gyamfi, from the youth ranks in Germany to the competitive spotlight of the Scottish Premiership and potentially European football.
Transfer Summary
| Detail | Info |
|---|---|
| Player | Emmanuel Gyamfi |
| From | Schalke 04 (Bundesliga 2) |
| To | Aberdeen FC |
| Contract | 4 years |
| Transfer Fee | Undisclosed |
| Age | 20 |
| Position | Left-back / winger |
| Previous Season | 31 games, 2 assists (VVV-Venlo) |
| Nationality | German (Ghanaian descent) |
| Replaces | Jack MacKenzie (joined Plymouth Argyle) |
| Status | Pending international clearance |
