United lead race for Pars striker

Tangerines and Buddies linked with move for Dunfermline attacker

Dundee United are the frontrunners to sign Dunfermline striker Nicky Clark, Courier Sport can reveal.

It is highly likely that the former Rangers and Queen of the South man has played his last game for the Pars.

Clark scored 21 goals last season and 16 the year before after arriving at East End Park from Bury. His contract runs out this summer and United aren’t the only interested club.

St Mirren are also keen on the 26-year-old and would obviously promise him another shot at Premiership football but the Tangerines can offer a better financial package.

Clark would be a replacement for Australian striker Scott McDonald, whose departure from Tannadice was confirmed yesterday.

The former Celtic and Motherwell forward was not offered a new contract.

Also leaving is goalkeeping coach Stuart Garden. The former Montrose manager joined the club in 2015 as part of Mixu Paatelainen’s backroom team.

Meanwhile, four young players have signed new deals.

Scott Allardice and Gavin Ritchie have agreed one-year contracts, while Louis Appere and Josh Donaldson have secured two-year deals.

Manager Csaba Laszlo said: “I am happy to have these young players signed.

“I believe all have the potential to be first team regulars for Dundee United and if they show they want it and continue to show dedication and hunger to succeed, then they can be a success at United and progress into the first team match day squad.”