Nadir Ciftci rejects new Dundee United deal

Nadir Ciftci has knocked back a new deal at Tannadice. Picture: John Devlin

NADIR Ciftci has rejected a contract extension offer to remain at Dundee United until May 2017.

The 23-year-old Turkish striker, who scored 16 times last season, will head for pastures new when his current deal expires at the end of next May.

Ciftci told the club’s official website: “After extending my two-year contract in December 2013 with an extra year, I have decided that after three years at Dundee United I will be looking for a new challenge.

“I’m satisfied with my development so far and therefore I must thank the coaching staff who played a big part in that.

“I would also like to thank the fans and the club, who have always been behind me.”

Manager Jackie McNamara said: “Nadir is a top performer for us and his worth to the team is much more than goals.

“He is a regular and this season alone played more than 85 per cent game time which is evidence of the positive and professional attitude he has on and off the pitch.

“People forget he is a young player and we are pleased to be part of his development while getting the best of him on the pitch.

“We respect his decision and his ambition as we know he’s attracted significant attention from other clubs. However, I’m looking forward to welcoming him back for the new season so that he can be part of a side that will once again challenge at the top of the game.”

l Forfar defender Darren Dods, who was recently linked with the manager’s job at Cowdenbeath, and former Stenhousemuir boss Scott Booth are among the candidates interviewed for the vacant top job at Brechin City.

Airdrie boss Gary Bollan, who was an early favourite, has been ruled out by the Glebe Park board because of the compensation that would be due to the Diamonds for his services.

Dods has put off re-signing for Forfar until the choice of the Brechin board is known while Booth is also ready to start immediately after being dismissed by Stenhousemuir in February.