KARLSSON'S READY FOR TAKE-OFF

Thelin made my career fly, says Bologna loanee

- By Blair Esson

SWEDEN international Jesper Karlsson is hoping his reunion with Jimmy Thelin at Aberdeen can make his career “fly” again following his much-hyped loan move from Bologna.

The 27-year-old, who was sold by AZ Alkmaar to the Italian club for around £9.5million in August 2023, joined the Dons on transfer deadline day in arguably the most eye-catching deal struck by a Scottish club this summer.

Karlsson admitted the presence of Reds boss Thelin, who was his manager at Elfsborg between 2018 and 2020, was key to his decision to swap Serie A for the Premiership.

“I have a good relationship with Jimmy since I played in Sweden, so this was a good choice for me,” said the attacking midfielder. “He was a big factor in me coming here.