Dundee United have signed a player of “unquestionable” pedigree in North Macedonia midfielder and Barcelona youth graduate David Babunski, says boss Jim Goodwin.
Dabunski, 30, moves to Tannadice from Hungarian side Mezokovesdi Sport Egyesulet on a one-year deal, with United holding the option of a further 12 months.
The Skopje-born player spent seven years in Barcelona’s famed ‘La Mesia’ youth academy, alongside the likes of Gerard Deulofeu and Adama Traore, before becoming a regular for the club’s B team in Spain’s second tier.
He joined Red Star Belgrade in 2016, winning the league title that season, then played under Ange Postecoglou at Yokohama F Marinos in Japan before spells in Romania and Hungary.
“David’s pedigree is unquestionable, having enjoyed a footballing education second to none with Barcelona,” said Goodwin of the 15-cap midfielder.
“His subsequent career has demonstrated both his versatility to adapt to several different cultures, on and off the park, and his quality to remain at the top level.
“He’s a player we’ve had on our radar for an extended period of time, so to introduce him to the training group was extremely gratifying. I eagerly anticipate his positive impact on the squad.”
Babinski says he “delayed the response to other offers” because he was so keen for the United move to happen.
“I’m deeply grateful for the trust the club has placed in me,” he added.
“Coming to a country where the football culture is massive and the standard of the league is high are some of the things that enticed me, and I can already feel the magnitude of the club.”
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