A regular in the Oldham midfield, McDonald also has a keen eye for goal, as demonstrated by the stunning strike which knocked out Everton in the FA Cup Third Round. However, he has decided to turn down the offer of a new contract at Boundary Park to make the move north.

"The lure of returning to the SPL with such a great club as Aberdeen was a major factor," said the 26-year-old former Kilmarnock star.

"I've really enjoyed my time at Oldham, but now I can't wait for the new season to get underway."

McDonald is likely to be a straight replacement for the departing Barry Nicholson as Jimmy Calderwood begins his rebuilding plans for next season.