Paul Hartley last night agreed a deal to sign for Aberdeen. The former Celtic and Hearts midfielder will complete the formalities of his contract today at the Dons training base at Loughborough University.
The 33-year-old was released by Bristol City yesterday and immediately travelled to meet with Aberdeen manager Mark McGhee and director of football Willie Miller.
Hartley was in the stands to watch the Dons run out 1-0 winners at Port Vale and will be officially unveiled today.
McGhee is delighted with the capture and said: “He will be a big, big asset. He is a quality player and a quality individual. If we can get him on board he will be a great mentor to our young players. Paul brings more than just the performance on the Saturday.
"I think everyone in the squad was excited when he arrived at the training ground. They all know Paul He is a popular player in Scotland. I am sure the players will be pleased with his arrival. We lost a lot of experienced players in the summer. We need someone like a Paul Hartley to help the young players. He will be the making of them.
“The talks are well advanced. We would not be embarrassing ourselves by bringing him here if it was not going to be concluded."
McGhee wants Hartley to anchor the midfield.
He said: “I see Hartley and Folly being the defensive side of the midfield. Hartley is an experienced player and he knows when he is able to do other things.
"He will bring things to the game and dictate the play because he is a quality player. David Clarkson said he was Bristol City's best player last year so if we cross the line with it we will be well pleased.
“He is captain material but there are others to take into consideration."
McGhee does not think Hartley is the final piece of the jigsaw. His pursuit of Lee Hendrie is now likely to cool as his priority is to sign a left back.
Grant Basey played 45 minutes in last night's match and Robbie Williams remains an option.
McGhee may need to be creative.
He added: “We will now go away and see where we stand with the budget. Obviously we cannot afford all of them but we will see what we can do.
“I also see a lot in Grant Basey and Robbie Williams and we are still without a recognised left back.
“I do not see Hartley as the final piece of the jigsaw."
Aberdeen claimed victory last night when Michael Paton scored from the penalty spot with 10 minutes remaining after Mitch Megginson had been fouled in the penalty area.
It was another solid workout for the Dons with attacker Scott Vernon making an productive debut in the victory over the English side.