Dundee United have made a bid to sign Hamilton's Dougie Imrie.

The 28-year-old midfielder is out of contract at the end of the season and would be available to agree a pre-contract with any club but United are poised to land the player this month.

United manager Peter Houston confirmed that an offer, which STV understands is in the region of £25,000, has been made.

"We have made a bid for him," Houston confirmed. "When you're working with a smaller squad, versatility is a good thing.

"I've seen Dougie play as a lone striker, as a striker, wide on the right, wide left and at left-back.

"He's caught my eye when he's played against us. I've watched him a number of times and he's somebody I think would add to our squad."

United sold highly rated midfielder Scott Allan to West Bromwich Albion earlier this week and Houston is moving quickly to bolster his squad.

The manager has also agreed a pre-contract deal with Ross County striker Michael Gardyne, who will complete a switch to Tannadice at the end of the season.