Gavin Gunning has returned to Dundee United as Mixu Paatelainen's first signing since he took charge of the club last month.
The former Blackburn youth player has moved back to Scotland after spells at Birmingham City and Oldham since leaving Tannadice in June 2014.
He has not played a league game since then after suffering a posterior cruciate ligament injury early in his St Andrew's career.
Gunning was a regular during his previous three-year stay on Tayside, however, playing 99 games and scoring 10 goals.
His move is subject to international clearance and he is expected to go into the United squad for Saturday's Scottish Premiership meeting with St Johnstone.
Paatelainen will hope the player's arrival will help plug a defence which has conceded 11 goals in five games - four ending in defeat - since the Finn was appointed as manager.
Gunning told dufc.co: "I'm happy to be back at United. I enjoyed my time here previously. I am fit and determined to show I am still a good footballer.
"I like the fact the head coach is a straight talker and doesn't take any nonsense. He is what the club needs at the moment and I can play my part also. I feel as if I am ready to play straight away but it will be up to the gaffer whether I am selected or not."
Paatelainen said: "Gavin is a very powerful player. He is a solid defender who shows great aggression. He is good in the air and also on the ball. He will strengthen us footballing wise.
"He is also a great addition to our changing room. He is well over his injury concerns now. He has been training with us for over a week and has shown up very well.
"He is fully fit and raring to go. Maybe he lacks a little match fitness but once he gets that he will be an important part of our squad."