Dundee United's shock claim over defender’s transfer deadline day departure to Derry City

The transfer of centre-half Kevin Holt from Dundee United to Derry City on Saturday evening brought a stinging response from the Scottish Premiership side.

Both clubs issued statements confirming the 32-year-old’s switch - but the Tangerines’ missive contained some additional details about how the move came about.

Holt is new Derry boss Tiernan Lynch’s seventh signing - with the former Larne chief bringing in several big-name and vastly experienced players.

He played in Scotland with Queen of the South, Dundee, where he spent three seasons in the top-flight, and Partick Thistle, as well as the Tannadice side.

Holt also had spells in Cyprus with Pafos and Ermis Aradippou.

As for the circumstances around his latest move, United issued a statement on their website, which read: “Dundee United can confirm defender Kevin Holt has joined League of Ireland outfit Derry City for an undisclosed fee. The permanent transfer is subject to international clearance.

“The club would like to place on record our disappointment at reaching this outcome given the player was a valued member of the squad.

“However, the player and his representatives made it clear that he may be unavailable for selection between now and the end of the 2024/25 campaign should the transfer not be agreed.

“After considering our options, it was felt that securing a significant fee for a player out of contract in the summer was the best option available.

“Dundee United wish the player all the best for his future career.”

It is unclear how much Derry City handed over to secure the signing, but the League of Ireland side was happy to welcome a player with four goals in 29 appearances so far this season.

“Derry City FC are delighted to announce the signing of Kevin Holt on a two-year deal from Dundee United, pending international clearance,” read a Candystripes statement.

“With 4 goals in 29 appearances this term, the Dumfries native has been a major part of United’s side this season.

“Holt began his career with boyhood club Queen of the South where he went on to make over 150 appearances and won the Scottish Challenge Cup in 2013.

“The left-sided defender also lined out for the other Dundee, before stints at Cypriot First Division sides Pafos and Ermis Aradippou either side of a QotS return.

“After the continental adventures, Holt settled with Partick Thistle and was a senior figure in their journey to the Premiership Play-Off final in 2023 which earned him the move to Dundee United that summer.

“With a wealth of experience and a knack for popping up with big goals, the 32-year-old will be a welcome addition to the City squad.”

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