Gregory Tade says he expects to sign for St Johnstone in the next 24 hours after confirming he will leave Inverness Caledonian Thistle.

The 25-year-old has been offered a two-year deal with the Perth club and claims the chance to play in Europe was a big factor in his decision.

Tade hit nine goals in 40 appearances for Terry Butcher’s men in his debut season in the SPL.

But now he wants to further his career by playing in the Europa League under Steve Lomas.

He told the Daily Express: “My advisor spoke to St Johnstone and we are now very close to an agreement. I would expect everything to be agreed over the next 24 hours and I will become a St Johnstone player.

“They have offered me a two-year-contract and there are just some minor details to be ironed but I don’t think it will be a problem. Getting the chance to play European football was probably the big thing for me in joining St Johnstone.

“It was the main factor for me. I don’t want to be disrespectful to Inverness because they are a great club and I will be forever grateful to them for giving me my chance in the SPL.

“They gave me the platform and now I want to further my career and play in European competition.

“That has always been something I have wanted to do and now I have that chance under Steve Lomas at St Johnstone.”

Frenchman Tade only joined Caley Thistle last summer after a two-year stint with Raith Rovers where he became a cult figure.

And after giving him his chance in Scotland’s top flight, he says telling Terry Butcher he was departing the Highland side was a difficult experience.

He added “I have phoned Terry and thanked him for the opportunity he has given me.

“It was the hardest telephone I have made. I am very grateful to him but as I said Europe was the big factor for me. It isn’t all about money.

“It has never really been about money in my career. I have always just wanted to do the best I could in my career.”

St Johnstone have already signed defenders Gary Miller and Tam Scobbie so far this summer.

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