Aberdeen have identified Kayserispor centre back Jadel Katongo as a potential transfer target, but securing a deal for the former Manchester City man could prove difficult.
Boss Stephen Robinson has been busy assembling his new squad ahead of the start of the Premiership season, with the capture of veteran goalkeeper Marius Muller taking their summer signing tally to eleven. While the Irishman is keen to offload players to balance the books, more new arrivals are expected.
Talks initiated but financial hurdles remain
Sources in Turkey claim that talks have been initiated to try and bring Katongo to Pittodrie. Record Sport understands that the 21-year-old is known to the Reds but that the finances involved will make striking an agreement with Kayserispor to sign the England U20 international very difficult.
Katongo's career path
Katongo rose through the ranks at the Etihad but failed to make a first team appearance for City, spending back-to-back seasons on loan at Peterborough United in 2023/24 and 2024/25, helping them win the EFL Trophy twice. Back in January, he headed out to Turkey to join Kayserispor and made 10 appearances in the top tier in the second half of last season.
Katongo has been capped by England from U15 right up to U20 level but is also eligible to play for Zambia, who he qualifies for through his mother. The defender has been invited to train with the nation's senior side on several occasions, most recently in the lead-up to the Africa Cup of Nations last year.
Aberdeen's pre-season form
Aberdeen have notched up three wins from three in the Premier Sports group stage and will have the chance to seal their place in the last eight when they face Kelty Hearts at Pittodrie on Saturday. They kick-off their Premiership campaign seven days later when last season's runners-up Hearts make the trip north to the Granite City.
