Aberdeen Football Club is scrambling to strengthen its squad as the transfer deadline approaches, with key moves hinging on the signing of Palestinian international Oday Dabbagh from Charleroi. Following their disappointing performance so far this season, the Dons are searching for firepower to address their recent struggles on the pitch, marked by a 14-game winless streak.
Dabbagh, who has scored 16 goals in 45 appearances for Palestine, is currently set to join the Dons on loan until the end of the season, with the potential for a transfer to be made permanent later on. Known to Aberdeen’s head of recruitment, Nuno De Almeida, from his time at Portuguese side Arouca, the 26-year-old marksman has the experience and aptitude needed by the Dons, who are eager to revitalize their attack.
Aberdeen’s pressing need for offensive options has become glaringly clear after they failed to score in their last five league games, the latest being a 2-0 defeat to Hibernian which left fans and management alike frustrated. Following the loss, manager Jimmy Thelin admonished his players for their lack of commitment, emphasizing the urgency to turn the tide. He stated, “If it was a quick solution, I’d have solved it a long time ago. Players have to go out on the pitch and give everything you have.”
The Dons had previously looked at Marko Lazetic, the young striker from AC Milan, but their interest has reportedly cooled due to complications surrounding work permits, stemming from Lazetic's limited international experience. At just 21 years old, the Serbian would face obstacles if recalled from his loan at Backa Topola, making the signing of Dabbagh seemingly more viable.
Aberdeen's quest for new talent does not stop at Dabbagh. The club is also exploring additional reinforcements, particularly in central defense. Reports suggest they are well on the way to securing another defender from overseas, reflecting the urgency for stability following Angus MacDonald's exit to Exeter City. The veteran center-back’s departure, coupled with the club's precarious league position, has heightened the stakes for Thelin as he tries to navigate the squad’s composition before the transfer window slams shut.
MacDonald, who has been out of favor recently, was notable for his contributions when he joined from Swindon Town, helping the team secure European football last season. His absence from the last two matchday squads highlighted his dwindling role under Thelin, prompting interest from Exeter City as the League One side looks to fortify their own lineup.
Aberdeen has had some roster changes already this season, bringing in new faces like Latvian defender Kristers Tobers and Danish full-back Alexander Jensen. The club has also added Alfie Dorrington from Tottenham and Jeppe Okkels from Preston on loan. With four new signings and over £1 million spent, the Dons have made strides, but the recent results demand more action.
The focus on bolstering attacking options has arisen from the urgent need for goals, particularly from players such as Kevin Nisbet, Ester Sokler, and Duk, whose combined lack of contribution has left the Dons vulnerable at the business end of the pitch. The Dons are not done yet; Thelin has expressed interest in exploring options for another No 9 to alleviate the scoring drought and bolster confidence among the squad.
It is clear from the current situation at Aberdeen Football Club, which has gone from promising to perilous, the stakes are higher than ever. Supporters are hopeful the club will deliver signings before the transfer window closes to address their pressing needs and rejuvenate the squad’s ambitions for the remainder of the season. The hours leading up to the transfer deadline promise to be tense for everyone connected to the club, with eyes on any last-minute moves. Will the Dons secure the reinforcements they desperately need to spark their campaign back to life?