Dundee United are attempting to sign Iraq international midfielder Zidane Iqbal from Utrecht before Scotland's 5pm transfer deadline on Thursday. Manager Jim Goodwin is keen to strengthen his midfield options as the Iraqi national team struggles with five consecutive losses in World Cup qualifying.
Who is Zidane Iqbal?
Zidane Iqbal is a 23-year-old midfielder of Pakistani heritage who came through the Manchester United youth academy. He currently plays for Dutch side Utrecht, with one year remaining on his contract there. Iqbal made history by becoming the first player of Pakistani descent to appear in a World Cup finals when he came on as a substitute for Iraq against Norway. His potential move comes after Blackburn Rovers failed to secure his signature before the English transfer window closed.
According to a report in the Daily Record, the Scottish club prefers a permanent deal for the player. This pursuit comes at a time when the Iraq national team sits fourth in their World Cup qualifying group with zero points from three matches, having conceded 12 goals while scoring only one. Their most recent result was a heavy 5-0 defeat to Senegal on June 26, 2026.
Why does Dundee United want Iqbal?
Manager Jim Goodwin has been looking to add another defensive midfielder since selling Vicko Sevelj to Neftchi. Iqbal's profile as a number six fits this requirement precisely. The player also has an existing connection at Tannadice Park through his international teammate Dario Naamo, although Naamo missed out on Iraq's World Cup squad this summer.
Iraq's recent defensive struggles highlight the need for midfield stability. The team has lost its last five international matches a concerning trend ahead of important qualifying fixtures. Fans can track the team's upcoming schedule on our fixtures page. Goodwin believes Iqbal's European experience could translate well to the Scottish Premiership.
What are the chances of the deal happening?
Dundee United officials are working to reach an agreement with Utrecht before the Scottish deadline passes. The timing presents a significant challenge, but the club is making concerted efforts to push the transfer through. No financial details have been disclosed publicly, but negotiations are reportedly ongoing.
Iqbal's ability to play as a deep-lying midfielder is exactly what Goodwin has been seeking. The move would offer the player regular first-team football, which could benefit his standing with the Iraqi national team. Iraq's current form shows zero wins in their last five matches, a statistic visible on our comprehensive stats section. A successful transfer could provide fresh impetus for both club and country.
How would Iqbal adapt to Scottish football?
Having trained at Manchester United and played in the Dutch Eredivisie, Zidane Iqbal possesses a blend of technical and tactical experience that should aid his adaptation. Regular playing time at Dundee United would be valuable for his development and for Iraq's national team prospects as they look to rebuild after a difficult qualifying start.
The player's contract situation means Utrecht may be open to a permanent sale rather than a loan. The coming hours will determine whether Dundee United can secure their man before the window slams shut. A deal would see Iqbal join a squad where he already has a familiar face in Dario Naamo, potentially easing his transition to a new league and country.
