'He ticks every box': Jim Goodwin delighted to add Julius Eskesen to Dundee United midfield

Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin believes he has signed a midfielder who “ticks all the boxes” after Julius Eskesen joined the club.

The Dane has agreed a two-year deal, with the option for another year, after United signed him from FK Haugesund.

Eskesen began his career with Odense Boldklub and was a Danish youth international, as well as picking up European experience, in his time at the club. He moved to Sonderjyske five years ago and had a successful spell there before moving to Haugesund in 2022.

Goodwin says the 26-year-old is moving at the right age, and has a lot of qualities that should see him thrive at Tannadice, where he has been handed the number ten shirt.

“Julius is another carefully considered addition who aligns with our overarching recruitment strategy,” he said. “We’re targeting players with proven quality, extensive experience at a high level, and the desire to be part of a competitive and ambitious squad. Julius ticks every one of those boxes.

“He offers a rare blend of technical quality, tactical intelligence, and tenacity in the middle of the park — he doesn’t shy away from the physical side of the game, which is essential in a league as physically demanding as the Scottish Premiership.

“Julius also gives me flexibility. He can play as a deeper-lying, combative midfielder or push forward and influence the game in the final third, whilst his set-piece delivery is second to none.

“We’ve made it clear we want to construct a squad not just for the short term, but for sustained success – Julius fits that model perfectly. He’s still at a great age, he’s hungry to improve, and he’s chosen to come here because he believes in what we’re building at Dundee United.”