Utd search for defenders adds two more targets

DUNDEE United’s search for new centre-backs continues apace as former Dundee defender Julen Etxabeguren and ex-Tannadice man Callum Morris have been added to their list of targets.

Both are free agents, though, the Tangerines face a battle to land either signature.

Etxabeguren was released by the Dark Blues last month after an injuryhit year and has returned to Spain.

Whether he can be enticed back to Scotland remains to be seen, although, he did enjoy his time in Dundee.

Morris, meanwhile, told Dunfermline he was leaving them to return to England but a move back to former club United might be enough for him to shelve those plans.

The 28-year-old played 45 times for Jackie McNamara at Tannadice over two seasons but, like Etxabeguren, has a history of injuries.

He did play 40 games last season for the Pars, however.

Also on the list is former Partick man Frederic Frans.

The Belgian centre-back is wanted by his former club also, as well as fellow-Championship side Ross County.

Meanwhile, United have announced their first pre-season friendly.

Csaba Laszlo’s men will head to Brechin City on Tuesday, July 3, kick-off 7.45pm.

That sees both city clubs heading to Glebe Park in pre-season because it’s the only grass pitch in the area, apart from Arbroath.

FORMER Dundee United favourite Nadir Ciftci is leaving Celtic at the end of this month.

Motherwell are favourites to sign the man they had on loan l ast season.

Craig Wighton