Ronald Hernandez joins Aberdeen as Derek McInnes swoops for Venezuelan right back

The 22-year-old signs a lengthy contract and goes straight into the squad to face Rangers.

Aberdeen have signed Venezuela international Ronald Hernandez on a four-and-a-half year deal.

The 22-year-old right back signs from Norwegian club Stabaek after two-and-a-half years in Scandinavia.

He could make his debut at Ibrox on Saturday with Derek McInnes revealing he would be part of the squad for the trip to face Rangers.

And the Dons boss believes it's a major coup for the club to get a player of Hernandez' quality to the club.

He said: “In a race against time, we’ve pulled out all the stops to get Hernandez to Pittodrie and part of the squad for this weekend and everyone is excited about his potential.

“He’s a young player, but he’s already got 15 caps for Venezuela, albeit in a number of friendlies. He’s played against the likes of Argentina with Messi and their stars and he’s done enough over the last couple of seasons to suggest that he’s going the right way.

“When I first spoke to Ronald, he was very keen to come and experience the Scottish Premier League with Aberdeen. Now, we have got him onboard with us, he can hopefully reach his full potential and be a valuable asset going forward.”

Hernandez has earned 15 caps for his country and played at last summer's Copa America, where Venezuela reached the semi-final.

And after getting his visa he is desperate to get going with the club.

He added: "I am so excited to start my journey with the team, with Aberdeen. I cannot wait to get started.

“I want to continue to build myself and continue to improve my football and I see the Scottish League and Aberdeen as giving me a really great opportunity to show my own great football.

“I’m really happy. It’s a very important step for me to join this great club.”

Hernandez becomes Aberdeen's fifth signing of the window joining Jon Gallagher, Dylan McGeouch, Matty Kennedy and Mark Gallagher.