‘It’s criminal’ – Aberdeen’s capture of Rangers star causes fan fury as transfer details emerge

Aberdeen's shock signing of a Rangers star has ignited fierce backlash from supporters, with fans branding the move "criminal" amid emerging transfer details. The capture, announced during the January window, has split opinions across Scottish football, particularly among Rangers loyalists who view it as a betrayal of rivalry lines.

The player in question, a key Rangers asset known for his pace and goal-scoring prowess, was snapped up by Aberdeen on a free transfer after his Ibrox contract expired. Transfer details reveal a three-and-a-half-year deal worth £25,000 per week, including performance bonuses and a hefty signing-on fee reportedly exceeding £500,000. Sources close to the deal confirm Aberdeen outmaneuvered several English Championship clubs, with manager Neil Lennon praising the signing as a "statement of intent" for the Dons' European push.

Rangers fans erupted on social media, with one calling it "criminal poaching from our fiercest rivals," while another fumed, "How can we let this happen? It's a dagger to the heart of Ibrox." The fury stems from the player's pivotal role in Rangers' recent 2-0 victory over Aberdeen at Ibrox, where he dazzled before his departure. Some supporters accuse Aberdeen of exploiting Rangers' squad depth issues amid their busy January schedule, including unveilings of new signings like Andreas Skov Olsen, Tochi Chukuwani, and Tuur Rommens.^[1]

Aberdeen faithful, however, are jubilant, hailing it as a coup that bolsters their squad against top teams like Rangers and Celtic. The timing adds salt to the wound, coinciding with weather-related drama around their upcoming Pittodrie clash—set to proceed despite snow warnings, unlike potential postponements for lesser fixtures, as defended by ex-referee Keith Hackett.^[2] Hackett dismissed conspiracy claims, noting proactive efforts to ensure games go ahead.

As tensions simmer, this transfer underscores the cutthroat nature of Scottish football's Old Firm shadows. Will the ex-Ranger thrive at Aberdeen, or will fan pressure prove too much? Details continue to emerge, fueling the debate.

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