Aberdeen add Preston’s Jeppe Okkels in January loan deal
Danish winger Jeppe Okkels joins Aberdeen on loan Credit: None
Aberdeen have added to their squad with the loan signing of Danish winger Jeppe Okkels from Preston North End, marking their first addition of the January transfer window.
The 25-year-old joins for the remainder of the season, with the Scottish club holding an option to make the move permanent.
Dons manager Jimmy Thelin, who previously coached Okkels during their time at Swedish side Elfsborg, expressed his enthusiasm for the reunion.
“Jeppe is someone we know well and is a player with a strong pedigree, so we are delighted he has opted to join us at Aberdeen,” said Thelin.
Thelin highlighted Okkels’ technical ability, eye for goal, and resilience as key assets for the team.
“He is a good finisher, who will bring a goal threat and provide real quality to our midfield options. He has had a frustrating period, however, he is a good character and with the fight and determination he shows we are sure he will be a positive addition to the squad.”
Okkels made a significant impact during his three years under Thelin at Elfsborg, recording 29 goals and 16 assists in 118 appearances.
In the 2023 season, he scored 11 goals in 30 games, earned him a move to Utrecht last January.
However, an injury disrupted his progress in the Netherlands, and he subsequently transferred to Preston North End in the summer.
Game time at Preston proved elusive, with Okkels managing just three starts and 10 total appearances, including a Carabao Cup outing against Arsenal. Now, he is eager to seize this new opportunity with Aberdeen.
Speaking to RedTV, Okkels shared his excitement about the move.
“I’ve been waiting for this opportunity. It’s good to get here to meet the boys, and I’m excited to get going. It was really important to get this done quickly. I want to come here and help the team, so the sooner I could be here, the better.”
Okkels also spoke highly of his former coach and now current manager.
“I know the manager well, what he expects and how he sees football, so I think it will be a good fit. He is hard working, calm and focussed on the journey, so I only have good things to say.”
