Aberdeen make Liverpool’s Williams their fifth signing of the summer

Aberdeen have made their fifth signing of the summer, adding defender Rhys Williams on loan from Liverpool.

The 22-year-old has made 14 starts for Liverpool, experiencing Premier League and Champions League football with the Premier League side, and has had loan spells with Swansea and Blackpool.

He’ll now spend the next season at Pittodrie, where he’ll be reunited with former Liverpool youth teammate Leighton Clarkson.

“I’m really pleased to be here,” Williams said. “When I knew there was an opportunity to come to Aberdeen on loan I spoke to Leighton and he couldn’t speak highly enough about his experience.

“I actually met some of the boys during the summer so there will be a few familiar faces in the dressing room which I’m sure will help me settle quickly.

“There’s a lot to look forward to this season, particularly with European football, and I can’t wait to get started and show everyone what I am capable of.”

Aberdeen manager Barry Robson believes the 6ft 5in defender can be “a real asset”.

“Coming from Liverpool, Rhys joins us with a great pedigree,” said Barry.

“He’s athletic, tall and we think we can improve him and give him the platform to continue his development. I’ve no doubt he’ll become a real asset for the team.

“We’ve developed a good understanding with Liverpool, and I think they trust us with their players.”

The signing was announced just hours after Graeme Shinnie’s return on a permanent deal, and joins Clarkson, Nicky Devlin and Ester Sokler in moving to the Dons.

Robson is happy with the recruitment so far but says there will be more to come before the side are back in competitive action.

“The squad is starting to take shape now ahead of what will be a busy season,” he said. “That said, we have still got a lot of work to do, and I expect the next few weeks will be busy with more new arrivals.”