DUNDEE UNITED are looking to the past to plan for their future by making a move to entice David Goodwillie back from Blackburn Rovers.

With the Tannadice club edging closer to agreeing a fee with Derby County for Johnny Russell, Jackie McNamara has moved to address the impending loss of the striker – as well as captain Jon Daly – by approaching Blackburn in an attempt to secure Goodwillie on loan for next season. The 24-year-old left United for Ewood Park in a £2.8m deal almost two years ago but has found his opportunities limited and is believed to be open to a return. Aberdeen and Hearts have been credited with an interest, too, but United's relationship with the npower Championship club, and the clauses contained in the initial deal, mean they may be better placed to negotiate a deal that would cover the Scotland internationalist's £20,000-per-week wages.

"Goodwillie is one who definitely interests us," revealed McNamara. "In think there are a few clubs after him but we've spoken to Blackburn. We'll wait and see but he would be a good one to enhance the squad.

"I know David was well-respected from his time here before. The fans adore him from his time here. For me, it would be great to have someone like that to work with. He's had a bad time of it in the past couple of years with managers leaving. It's maybe been unsettling but players need to be playing. I'm excited at the prospect of the ones we're trying to get it. And if we can do that then I'm sure the fans will be delighted."

It would also ease the dismay at Russell's expected departure. Nigel Clough's Derby have already had two offers rejected in the past week but dialogue has continued between the clubs an agreement for the 23-year-old, thought to be somewhere in the region of £800,000, is near.

"I think the club are getting closer to agreeing a fee with Derby County for Johnny," admitted McNamara, who himself is moving towards a deal in his compensation dispute with Partick Thistle after several months of ugly public wrangling.

"If they agree it will be down to the player to decide if he wants to go there. That is where we are just now. It's outwith my hands. But I think they're not far away.

"There's been a lot of speculation and I think it would be good if it were to be brought to a speedy conclusion. It would be good for the lad himself and for this club to move forward. It's important we do our work right and get the right players in. We've lost Jon Daly, Willo Flood and Barry Douglas so we've got to make sure we don't just get ones in for the sake of it."