Farid El Alagui joins Dundee Utd on loan from Brentford

Dundee United have signed French forward Farid El Alagui on loan from Brentford for the rest of the season, subject to international clearance.

The 28-year-old previously played in Scotland with Falkirk and his 27 goals during his one season with the Bairns led to a move to Griffin Park.

He has also played for Bergerac Football in France and Wydad and Stade Olympique Romorantinais in Morrocco.

United boss Jackie McNamara said it was the "ideal time" to sign El Alagui.

"He scores goals, has strong aerial ability and will hold the ball up and allow his fellow attackers to get involved," added the Tangerines manager.

Nadir Ciftci, David Goodwillie and Brian Graham have shared striking duties for Dundee United so far this season, but Goodwillie is due to return to parent club Blackburn Rovers this month.

El Alagui, who has scored nine goals since joining Brentford in 2012, had also attracted interest from Partick Thistle.

"We have moved quickly to secure him because there was interest from other clubs and I am delighted to sign him," McNamara explained.

"He will bring something a little different from what we have at the club and will enhance our attacking threat."