Aberdeen sign highly-rated prospect from Ajax and confirm return of loan player

Aberdeen have confirmed the deadline day signing of goalkeeper Jay Gorter on loan from Dutch champions Ajax.

The 22-year-old joins until the end of the season and could make his debut against St Mirren on Wednesday subject to the completion of the UK immigration process. Gorter joined Ajax in the summer of 2021 on a four-year deal after impressing in the Dutch second tier with Go Ahead Eagles.

A statement from Aberdeen read: “Ajax have high hopes for the young keeper who arrives at Pittodrie to compete for the number one jersey with Joe Lewis and fellow Dutchman Kelle Roos once he is fit again.”

Gorter, who has made two first-team appearances for Ajax having spent almost all of his time at the club on the bench, becomes the Dons’ second new signing since parting company with manager Jim Goodwin following the 6-0 defeat at Hibs on Saturday.

Aberdeen have signed goalkeeper Jay Gorter on loan from Dutch champions Ajax. (Photo by Craig Foy / SNS Group)

Defender Mattie Pollock joined on loan from English Championship side Watford until the end of the season on Monday, with Aberdeen also attempting to bring in at least one more new addition before the window closes. Departures are also possible with Dundee United credited with an interest in Marley Watkins.

The Dons have also recalled 19-year-old goalkeeper Tom Ritchie from his loan spell at Peterhead with the youngster having racked up 18 appearances for the League One side since joining in September.

The club statement added: “Tom Ritchie has also returned to Pittodrie for the second half of the season to help form a strong goalkeeping department under the stewardship of Craig Samson.”