KELTY HEARTS have strengthened their squad by making a move in the loan market for a Scottish Premiership defender.

Michael Tidser has swooped to sign Dundee United teenager, Samuel Cleall-Harding, for the duration of the campaign, subject to SFA approval.

The 18-year-old came through the ranks at Tannadice and was signed for them by former Kelty boss, Thomas Courts, who spent two years on Tayside working with their youth academy and as first team head coach.

Cleall-Harding's move to New Central Park is his first loan spell having regularly impressed with his parent club's under-18 side, before becoming part of their first team squad.

He could feature for the League One table-toppers in their home clash with Cove Rangers this weekend, who said: "Kelty Hearts are delighted to announce the loan signing of defender Samuel Cleall-Harding.

"The centre-back arrives from Premiership side Dundee United.

"Cleall-Harding was an unused substitute for all of Dundee United’s Premier Sports Cup fixtures and four of their Premiership matches. The defender has played in all of the SPFL Trust Trophy ties for Dundee United B – beating Buckie Thistle before losing out to Hamilton.

"This is the 18 year-old’s first loan spell as the youngster searches for regular first-team football. Having signed a contract extension at Tannadice in the summer, the teenager was a regular in Dundee United’s pre-season training with the first team."

United added: "Dundee United can confirm Academy graduate Sam Cleall-Harding has joined Kelty Hearts on a season-long loan, subject to SFA approval.

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"This will be the young defender's first loan spell, he regularly impressed at Under-18 level and is now part of the first team squad.

"The William Hill League One side, currently sit top of the table after five games.

"Harding could be in line to make his debut for the New Central Park outfit this weekend when Michael Tidser's men clash with Cove Rangers.

"Everyone at Dundee United wishes Sam all the very best with his loan spell in the Hearts, and we look forward to welcoming him back to the CalForth Construction Arena at Tannadice in the summer."

Last season, Kelty loaned 19-year-old midfielder, Lewis O'Donnell, from United, who went on to make 38 appearances in all competitions, scoring once.

Last month, O'Donnell signed for Kelty's League One rivals, Queen of the South, on a season-long loan deal.