Aberdeen have confirmed that Oldham Athletic midfielder Gary McDonald has signed a pre-contract agreement with the Pittodrie club that will see him become a Don when his current contract expires in the summer.

The 26 year old former Kilmarnock player has turned down a new offer from the Latics to return to Scotland and will put pen to a two year deal in the north east.

McDonald has played 91 times for Oldham since joining from Killie on a free transfer in the summer of 2006, scoring 12 times, including the spectacular winner in the Boundary Park's shock FA Cup victory over Everton earlier this season.

The midfielder, who can play on the right or in the centre, spent five years at Rugby Park, making 116 appearances and in the debut for the Scotland 'Futures' team three years ago, he scored against Poland.

Gary is delighted that his future has been sorted out. "I've thoroughly enjoyed my time at Oldham and was made a good offer to stay. However, the lure of returning to the SPL with such a great club as Aberdeen was a major factor in my decision and I can't wait for the new season to get underway."