Dundee United have signed American midfielder Ian Harkes to a two-year deal.

The 23-year old joins United after two years at DC United on a homegrown contract where he was a fixture during the 2017 MLS season. An attacking-midfielder, Harkes was presented the Hermann Trophy, awarded to the best college soccer player in the US in 2017. Harkes has featured for the USMNT Under 20 side and was part of the 2018 USMNT January camp.

Harkes said, "I am excited to get started here at United. This is a great opportunity for me, and I want to help this team get into the Premiership. I believe my style of play will be suited to Scottish football and I want to get out on the park in a United jersey as soon as I can."

Head Coach Robbie Neilson said, "Ian adds quality to our midfield pool and will bring extra quality into our first-team squad. I know we are getting a good energetic and skilful player and we will now look to get his match fitness up to speed."