In a major boost for Aberdeen FC, the club has secured the signing of Nigerian international Afeez Aremu on a deal lasting until 2028.The dynamic midfielder, who joins from FC Kaiserslautern, marks the Dons’ fifth addition during the January transfer window, promising to bring a physical edge to their squad.
A Rangers supporter has tragically passed away in Portugal ahead of the club’s Europa League fixture against FC Porto, casting a sombre mood over what was meant to be a gathering of travelling fans in the city. The supporter, who has not been publicly named, is understood to have died overnight from natural causes while in Porto. Rangers FC confirmed the heartbreaking news in an official statement, expressing deep sadness at the loss and offering condolences to those affected. A club spokesperson said everyone at Rangers was “extremely saddened” to learn of the supporter’s passing and confirmed that the club is in contact with both Portuguese and British authorities as they assist the individual’s family and friends during an incredibly difficult time. The news has been met with an outpouring of grief from supporters, with tributes flooding social media throughout the day. Many described the fan as a kind, gentle character who lived and breathed the club, highlighting the strong sense of community that exists among Rangers supporters at home and abroad. One tribute, shared by Senga O’Connor, captured the emotion felt by many, describing the supporter as “a lovely gentle man, who loved his team” and expressing sadness that he would not get the chance to see Rangers lift another trophy. Messages of remembrance and solidarity have continued to pour in, reflecting the deep bonds formed through shared support of the club. Rangers fans had travelled in large numbers to Portugal ahead of the Europa League clash with FC Porto, the final match of the club’s European campaign this season. While anticipation had been building ahead of the fixture, the tragedy has understandably shifted the focus toward remembrance and respect. On the pitch, Rangers have already been eliminated from the league phase of the UEFA Europa League, despite securing their first win of the campaign against Ludogorets last week. The match in Porto was set to be an opportunity to finish the European journey with pride, but events off the field have overshadowed footballing matters. As supporters gather in Porto, many will do so with heavy hearts, united in grief and remembrance, honouring a fellow fan whose passion for Rangers will not be forgotten.
Aberdeen FC have completed the signing of Nigerian international Afeez Aremu on a permanent transfer from German side 1. FC Kaiserslautern. The 26-year-old defensive midfielder has agreed a deal that will keep him at Pittodrie until 2028, subject to visa formalities and international clearance. Aremu becomes the Dons’ fifth signing of the January transfer window, following the arrivals of Lyall Cameron, Liam Morrison, Toyosi Olusanya and Per Kristian Bråtveit, as the club continues to strengthen its squad for the second half of the season. Known for his physical presence and defensive strength, Aremu was a player Aberdeen Sporting Director Lutz Pfannenstiel was eager to secure this month. “Afeez is going to bring a real physical edge to the squad, something which I think we have been looking for,” said Pfannenstiel. “He’s strong, robust and comes with good experience in a competitive environment in Germany. He is also tactically aware, so combined with all his athletic attributes, we believe he can adapt well to the intensity of the Scottish game and make a real impact.” After arriving in the Granite City to complete his move, Aremu expressed his excitement at starting a new chapter in Scotland. “I’m excited to be here. I’ve been made to feel really welcome, and I can’t wait to get started,” he said. “I like new challenges, and I think Aberdeen offers that. For me, I am growing and taking the next step in my career, so it’s a huge move. “I’m an aggressive player, but I have other attributes to my game. There is a lot to play for this season and a chance to move forward. I want to strengthen the team and help them achieve good things. “I’m ready to give everything every time I put the shirt on, and I’m really looking forward to playing in front of the fans.” Aremu’s arrival adds further steel and depth to Aberdeen’s midfield as the Dons push on during the remainder of the campaign.
Aberdeen’s striker Kusini Yengi has made a bold move to Japan, officially joining Cerezo Osaka on loan for the rest of the season!After a frustrating start at Pittodrie, where he only found the net once in 10 league games, Yengi is eager to reignite his career in the J League.
Rangers’ hopes for a £30m Champions League ‘back door’ entry are in tatters after Olympiacos leapfrog them in the UEFA coefficient rankings.
Dunfermline Athletic captain Kyle Benedictus has avoided a jail sentence after admitting his role in a serious assault during a drunken altercation at a pub in Edinburgh that left another man with a fractured neck. The 34-year-old defender pleaded guilty to assault to severe injury after an incident involving Dean Wilkes at Freddy’s Bar in the capital’s city centre. The court heard that what began as a verbal confrontation escalated into violence, with Benedictus placing Wilkes in a headlock and repeatedly striking him. During the struggle, both men fell to the floor, with Wilkes smashing his head against the base of the bar and losing consciousness. Although Wilkes was initially taken to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and discharged shortly afterwards, the seriousness of his injuries became clear the following day when he attended his GP. Medical examinations revealed he had suffered a broken bone in his neck, an injury that later required corrective surgery. Benedictus, who is from Plean near Stirling, left the scene following the incident but was arrested not long after and charged in March last year. He appeared at Edinburgh Sheriff Court last month, where he entered a guilty plea, and returned this week for sentencing. Defence solicitor Darryl Lovie told the court that Benedictus had not sought out confrontation and had acted under provocation. According to the defence, tensions had already been high after Benedictus’ teammate Sam Fisher was punched earlier in the evening by an unidentified man. Lovie said Benedictus’ intention had been to remove himself and his friend from the situation, but Wilkes approached them in an aggressive manner, which led to the altercation. Lovie added that his client accepted responsibility for his actions, stating Benedictus had “badly let himself down” and wished to apologise to the court, his family, his colleagues and Dunfermline Athletic. The court was also told that Benedictus had shown genuine remorse for what had happened. Sheriff Douglas Keir acknowledged the provocation involved in the incident, as well as Benedictus’ previous good character. Taking these factors into account, the sheriff decided a custodial sentence was not appropriate. Instead, Benedictus was handed a Community Payback Order, which includes 200 hours of unpaid work. Benedictus remains a key figure at Dunfermline Athletic, having made 86 appearances and scored eight goals since joining the club in 2022. He previously played for Raith Rovers, Dundee, Alloa Athletic and Montrose. Sam Fisher, also a Dunfermline player, is currently on loan at Scottish League One side Kelty Hearts. The case has reignited debate around the responsibilities of professional footballers away from the pitch and the consequences they face when off-field behaviour crosses the line.
Livingston manager David Martindale believes this season’s Scottish Premiership title race could deliver a historic outcome, backing Heart of Midlothian to finish top and break the long-standing dominance of the Old Firm. Despite Livingston finding themselves three points adrift at the foot of the table after facing every club at least once, Martindale feels that vantage point has given him a clear overview of the league. From what he has seen, Hearts have stood out as the most consistent side across the campaign. Under Derek McInnes, Hearts have combined structure, balance and resilience to establish themselves as genuine contenders. Martindale highlighted both the strength of their squad and the leadership in the dugout, pointing to a level of week-to-week reliability that separates them from their rivals. Crucially, Martindale framed Hearts’ title push as something that extends beyond Tynecastle. With Rangers and Celtic having dominated Scottish football for decades, a Hearts title would mark the first time in 40 years that a non-Old Firm club finished above both. For Martindale, that prospect alone makes their challenge significant. He rejected the idea that Hearts’ position is simply the result of Old Firm inconsistency, arguing instead that they have earned their place through strong performances and a clear footballing identity. He also praised the club’s off-field structure, describing Hearts as well-run from top to bottom and well equipped to sustain their challenge. While Martindale views the title race as a three-way contest, he also acknowledged the wider competitiveness of the league. Motherwell, managed by Jens Berthel Askou, were singled out for their strong position, with Martindale suggesting the fight for the top four could be tighter than many expect. Rangers, he noted, have given themselves an outside chance, while Celtic, under Martin O’Neill have shown improved consistency. But when all factors are weighed up, Martindale’s pick remains unchanged. For Scottish football, he believes a Hearts title would be a refreshing and defining moment — one that proves the league can still deliver genuine surprises at the very top.
Celtic’s January plans have taken a hit after their reported interest in Kasper Høgh ran into serious competition from England. The Danish striker, currently impressing with Bodø/Glimt, has been linked with the Scottish champions as they look to strengthen their attacking options before the window closes. However, a strong move from Norwich City now appears to have put Celtic on the back foot. Reports suggest Norwich have tabled a bid close to Bodø/Glimt’s valuation, believed to be in the region of £6–7 million, putting them firmly in pole position. With the English Championship side able to offer higher wages and a substantial transfer fee, Celtic face an uphill battle if they want to stay in the race. Høgh has caught the eye this season with a combination of physical presence, sharp movement, and an eye for goal, making him an attractive option for clubs looking for a reliable No.9. His performances in European competition have only added to his growing reputation. For Celtic, the setback raises fresh questions about their January recruitment strategy. With time ticking down in the window, the pressure is on to either match the financial demands or pivot quickly to alternative targets. Whether Celtic choose to push the boat out or walk away could define the remainder of their season — but for now, this is a clear reminder that the transfer market is as competitive off the pitch as it is on it.
Rangers have rejected a £13million offer from Fenerbahce for striker Youssef Chermiti. Danny Rohl declares the Portuguese star “not for sale” amid a title race.