Michael Cairney outlines Dundee United strategy as recruitment chief insists transfer work already started

Michael Cairney has revealed summer transfer business is already underway at Dundee United despite only being officially confirmed as head of recruitment this evening.

The new transfer guru was announced by the club via social media as they welcomed the former Doncaster Rovers and Barnet head who has also worked with Southampton and their Sport Republic group. Work has already started, Cairney says, to identify potential summer targets for the next window alongside manager Jim Goodwin.

"I am delighted to be joining a club of the size and stature of Dundee United," he told the club's official website. "It was an opportunity that I could not turn down after having discussions with both the Chief Executive and the Board of Directors. Helping the club fulfil its ambitions over the coming seasons is a challenge I will relish.

"It's a really exciting time to be joining the club - we have a bit of a blank canvas and an excellent opportunity to implement some new structures and processes. Work has been underway for several weeks on identifying some key targets and enhancing our recruitment strategy moving forward."

Chief executive, Luigi Capuano, added: "At the outset of this season, both the Manager and I were clear in our process of recruitment, which was focused on acquiring players who were previously successful in attempts to get out of the cinch Championship.

"Having secured our Premiership status, the strategy has now shifted to building a squad that can be competitive in the top flight next term, and we perceive Michael and the Head of Recruitment position overall to be a key figure in this process.

"Looking at the long-term future of this area of the club, the construction of a Recruitment Department is of paramount importance, as this will play a pivotal role in the club's efforts to develop players at Tannadice as part of our player trading model.

"Speaking on behalf of the Board of Directors, we are committed to ensuring our success both on and on the pitch persists."