Manager Alex Smith wants the Jim Lauchlan situation to be resolved as soon as possible - or the deal could be off. United had hoped to have discussions with the big Kilmarnock defender by now, but Lauchlan's internal dispute at Rugby Park is causing a delay in him heading to Tannadice. Unless matters get sorted out soon, the 23-year old may not after all turn out in Tangerine.
Smith said, "The snag at the other end is no fault of Dundee United, and I can't afford to hang around waiting - I need to get on with my job. "Jim is an influential defender and would be an asset here, but I need this situation to be tidied up right away."