Aberdeen midfielder Lewis Ferguson has completed a move to Serie A side Bologna.
The Scotland international has departed Pittodrie in a deal worth £3million, following the likes of countrymen Aaron Hickey and Liam Henderson in securing a move to Italy. Dons boss Jim Goodwin paid tribute to a "fantastic" player who has taken a "brave" step to test himself abroad. Goodwin said: “We want to be a Club that is an attractive option for young players who know they can come here, get important game time, train in excellent facilities, and have opportunities to further their development.
“ Lewis has been a fantastic player for Aberdeen. He became an integral part of the dressing room in recent seasons, and he has earned the right to explore other options. The club has helped his development massively. He’s played an impressive number of first team games for his age, not only domestically but in Europe as well, and recently made his debut for his country.
"There’s no doubt Lewis has made a brave move, opting to go abroad and face the challenge of football in a different country. But I am sure he will be a success.”
Ferguson joined Aberdeen from Hamilton Accies in 2018, winning the club's Young Player of the Year Award in his first campaign. He made it two in a row the following season and last term he was voted Players' Player of the Year.
He exits Pittodrie having made 169 appearances, bagging 37 goals. Ferguson will arrive in Bologna shortly following the departure of Scotland international team-mate Hickey to Brentford.
Aberdeen, meanwhile, remain in the market for new signings and the Ferguson fee, plus big money rolling in from Calvin Ramsey's transfer to Liverpool, will likely fund further arrivals. Goodwin is on the trail of Benfica forward Luis Lopes.
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