Nadir Ciftci: Dundee United striker rejects new deal

Nadir Ciftci has been a regular scorer for Dundee United

Dundee United striker Nadir Ciftci has rejected a one-year contract extension at Tannadice.

The Turkey Under-19 international's contract runs until May 2016 and he told the club's website he will seek "a new challenge" after his final season.

Ciftci, 23, joined from NAC Breda in July 2013 and has scored 33 goals.

"We respect his decision and his ambition as we know he's attracted significant attention from other clubs," said manager Jackie McNamara.

"Nadir is a top performer for us and his worth to the team is much more than goals. He is a regular and this season alone played more than 85% game time which is evidence of the positive and professional attitude he has on and off the pitch.

Ciftci's attitude has been praised by manager McNamara

"People forget he is a young player and we are pleased to be part of his development while getting the best of him on the pitch.

"I'm looking forward to welcoming him back for the new season so that he can be part of a side that will once again challenge at the top of the game."

Ciftci played for Kayserispor and Portsmouth before joining Breda and was capped by the Netherlands' Under-17 side before electing to represent Turkey, where he was born. He was a youth player with two Dutch clubs before moving to England.

During Ciftci's two seasons at Tannadice United have finished fourth and then fifth in the Scottish Premiership. They also reached the 2014 Scottish Cup final and this season's League Cup final, although he was suspended for the latter.

"After extending my two-year contract in December 2013 with an extra year, I have decided that after three years at Dundee United I will be looking for a new challenge.

"I'm satisfied with my development so far and therefore I must thank the coaching staff who played a big part in that. I would also like to thank the fans and the club, who have always been behind me."