Aberdeen are set to swoop for US international midfielder Stuart Holden. The Houston Dynamo star is out of contract at the end of the season and Mark McGhee will attempt to lure the highly-rated player to Pittodrie.

“He is one we are looking at.” McGhee told the Daily Express.

“It could happen in January or we may have to wait until the end of the season.

“He fits into the calibre of player we are trying to sign.”

Aberdeen-born Holden moved to Texas with his family at the age of 10 and took US citizenship in 2006. The 24-year old has 12 caps for his country and, having already played for USA in the Beijing Olympics, is looking to win a place in Bob Bradley’s team for the World Cup in South Africa.

Holden has enjoyed huge success at Houston Dynamo, having won the MLS championship in 2006 and 2007. The versatile midfielder was named in this season’s MLS Team of the Season alongside Landon Donovan and Freddie Ljungberg.

If Aberdeen were to land Holden, he would join the growing ranks of SPL players who started out in the MLS. St Mirren midfielder Andy Dorman was recruited from New England Revolution on freedom of contract while Rangers have two current US internationals. DaMarcus Beasley started out at LA Galaxy and Chicago Fire while Maurice Edu was a £2.6million purchase from Toronto FC.

McGhee could face some competition for Holden’s signature. The midfielder has spoken of his interest in moving to the UK but several sides are said to be interested in snapping up the talented player.

"My contract is up and I've told Houston Dynamo I want to weigh up my options before I commit to anything,” Holden said.

“I would never rule out staying there - given what they have done for me - but I'd be doing myself a disservice if I didn't look further afield.

"I'm available on a free and I've already got a few options in Scotland and England. Moving back to the UK appeals but I have to make sure wherever I end up I'm playing every week.

"I have a big chance to play at the World Cup in the summer and don't want to miss out on it by being at the wrong side."