Hibernian have announced a pre-contract agreement to sign Aberdeen midfielder Jamie McGrath.
The Dons had been in talks with the 28-year-old Republic of Ireland international about extending his deal at Pittodrie beyond the end of this season.
But McGrath has opted to join William Hill Premiership rivals Hibs on a four-year contract until the summer of 2029, much to the delight of Easter Road boss David Gray.
"He's a player that we've admired for some time," Gray told the Hibs website. "He's a creative player that will add extra quality in our midfield and in the final third.
"It's clear to everyone that he's been a standout performer in the Scottish Premiership over the last few years, and his experience and character will add to our dressing room. We all look forward to working with Jamie in the summer."
McGrath first moved to Scotland five years ago when he joined St Mirren in January 2020 before landing a move to Wigan in 2022 that did not go to plan.
After a fruitful loan spell at Dundee United, he joined Aberdeen in the summer of 2023 and has established himself as one of their most creative players, with 16 goals and a string of assists over the past season and a half.
Both Hibs and Aberdeen are currently battling with each other for third place in the table and McGrath's decision is unlikely to go down well with Dons fans.
The Pittodrie club have not issued any statement confirming the impending departure of the Irishman, who has been absent through injury since the 0-0 draw with Hearts on 12 January.
Hibs sporting director Malky Mackay added: "We have been working behind the scenes ahead of the summer transfer window to ensure we bring the best possible players into the football club.
"Jamie is someone that has been performing at a high level for a number of years, and is a great example of the calibre of player we want to bring to this club.
"The character and personality of any player we bring into our squad is so important and Jamie is an exceptional person and professional.
"We look forward to welcoming the McGrath family to Leith and hope that Jamie has a long and successful career in a Hibs strip."
