Dundee United boss Jackie McNamara has signed former Hearts defender Ryan McGowan.
The 25-year-old Australian has put pen to paper on a contract at Tannadice until the end of season 2015/16.
McGowan spent seven years with the Jambos, winning a Scottish Cup medal playing in the side that beat Hibs 5-1 in 2012 before moving to China to feature for Shandong Luneng Taishan in 2013.
McGowan was part of Australia’s World Cup squad last year in Brazil and has played 12 times for the Socceroos.
McNamara said: “Ryan is a tough and excellent footballer who will improve us defensively. He is a big lad who is strong in the air and this will impact in both defensive and attacking scenarios. He is a strong personality which is important for me.
“I am delighted to be able to bring him to United because other clubs were after him. Players see our club as a great place to show off their talent and enjoy playing football. This signing makes us stronger defensively and that was something I was keen to address in this transfer window.”
McGowan added: “It is great to be back in the Scottish Premiership and I am excited about the challenge of being a Dundee United player. When I moved to Shandong Luneng Taishan, I believed I would return to Scottish football one day and for it to be here at Tannadice is fantastic.
“My time in China was a great experience but I look at what we can achieve here at Dundee United this season and I want to play a part in helping the club reach its goals.”