Dundee United target Goodwillie, Derby for Russell

David Goodwillie: Dundee United considering loan move for former striker. Picture: Getty

Jackie McNamara has revealed United have approached Blackburn in a bid to take  24-year-old Goodwillie on loan next season as Russell edges  closer to sealing a £750,000 move to Derby County.

Goodwillie left United when he clinched a £2.8m transfer to the Premiership with Blackburn in August 2011, but spent a brief spell last season on loan to Crystal Palace as he struggled to hold down a place at Ewood Park.

“Goodwillie is one who definitely interests us,” said McNamara. “I think there are a few clubs after him, but we have spoken to Blackburn. It would certainly be a good one to get in to enhance the squad.

“I know David was well-respected from his time here before. The fans adore him. For me, it would be great to have someone like that to work with.

“He’s maybe had a bad time of it in the past couple of  years with managers leaving.  It’s maybe been a bit unsettling but players need to be playing and he does as from the point of view of kick-starting his international career as well.”

McNamara also revealed his compensation battle with Partick Thistle is almost at an end. The United manager has been on the receiving end of some harsh words from his former club, who claim he  wanted money for his part in helping them win promotion to the SPL prior to his move to  Tannadice back in January.

McNamara has hotly disputed this and insists the truth will all come out soon after United initially offered them £80,000 to solve the matter. He said: “We’re hoping it’s nearly done, depending on the lawyers. Partick Thistle’s comments have been a bit disappointing. It was never the case that I wanted bonus money. They know that. I wanted any money to go to charity, but they didn’t say that. It’s never been about the money from me.”