Dundee United make Zac Sapsford first summer signing at Tannadice

Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin believes the signing of Zac Sapsford is “a terrific piece of business” and expects the striker to thrive at Tannadice.

The club has completed the signing of the Australian forward from Western Sydney Wanderers, and Sapsford has signed a three-year deal, subject to international clearance.

The 22-year-old played for a number of youth teams in Sydney, and was capped by his country at under-17 level, before making his professional debut with Western Sydney Wanderers in 2022.

Since then he has established himself as a regular first team goalscorer, and United say his performances were picked up by data tracking before traditional scout reports convinced them to make a move.

Goodwin believes he has a lot to offer and will get United fans on their feet.

“The addition of Zac represents a terrific piece of business for the club – to have a player of his calibre secured so early in the window is incredibly satisfying,” he said.

“He’s a dynamic forward with a killer instinct in the final third off both feet or with his head, and also has the awareness to intelligently bring his teammates into play.

“We feel he’s someone that will get our supporters out of their seats and we can rely on in big moments given his mentality and track record in those situations.

“Zac immediately bought into our vision for him and his development – I’m looking forward to closely monitoring his progression during his time in tangerine.”

United’s head of recruitment Ross Goodwin said: “Zac was a player who piqued our interest after being flagged by the clubs internal data models, and impressed when we followed this up with more traditional scouting methods.

“These new processes combined with conventional, in-person talent ID will be pivotal in identifying new additions throughout the summer and beyond.

“We fought off stiff competition from across the globe for his signature, so we’re incredibly pleased to have the deal over the line so early in the window, and we look forward to unveiling more exciting new signings for United fans to enjoy watching throughout the forthcoming seasons.”