Aberdeen sign Ante Palaversa from Troyes for undisclosed fee

“He has had a frustrating period in the last eighteen months. However, he is a player we believe has significant potential.”

Aberdeen’s fifth recruit of the summer, who awaits a work permit, came through the youth ranks with local club Hajduk and has represented Croatia up to under-21 level.

After being loaned back to the Split club by City, he was also farmed out to Oostende in Belgium, Getafe in Spain and Kortrijk in Belgium before a permanent transfer to Troyes.

Palaversa made only nine appearances for the French side despite their relegation to Ligue 2 and Aberdeen point out that his two years there were interrupted by injury.

Now, though, he is keen to fill the gap at Pittodrie with Dante Polvara and Leighton Clarkson both missing through injury.

“I feel I need to take this opportunity at Aberdeen to prove myself and get my career back on track,” Palaversa said. “I know it is a big club.

“I’m a creative midfielder, I like to play football and I believe I will get my chance here.”