Dundee United are delighted to announce the signing of Michael Forbes following his departure from West Ham United. The Northern Ireland international has agreed a two-year deal, with the club holding an option for a further year, subject to SFA and international clearance.

A commanding and versatile defender capable of operating both at centre-back and left-back, Forbes arrives at the CalForth Construction Arena following an impressive development through one of English football's most respected academy systems.

Standing at 6ft 2in, the 22-year-old joins the Terrors after spending the 2025/26 season on loan with Northampton Town, where he continued his development in senior football and further demonstrated the qualities that have earned him recognition at international level.

Beginning his career with Dungannon United Youth before progressing through the ranks at Dungannon Swifts, Forbes quickly established himself as one of Northern Ireland's brightest prospects, attracting interest from across the UK before securing a move to West Ham United.

Since arriving in East London, the defender enjoyed a steady rise through the ranks at the Premier League club. A regular presence within the Hammers' Under-21 side, Forbes captained the team on numerous occasions and earned recognition for his leadership, defensive maturity and composure in possession.

His development also saw him break into West Ham's senior matchday squad, first being included for a UEFA Europa Conference League fixture during the club's successful European campaign.

On the international stage, Forbes has represented Northern Ireland at Under-16, Under-18, Under-19 and Under-21 levels before making his senior debut in a UEFA Euro 2024 qualifier against Finland in November 2023.

Following valuable experience in the English Football League, Forbes now arrives at Dundee United ready for the next chapter of his career as he looks to establish himself in the Scottish Premiership.

A DEFENDER WITH HUGE POTENTIAL

After securing his latest addition of the summer transfer window, Dundee United Manager Jim Goodwin expressed his delight, saying: "Michael is a player we've admired for some time and we're delighted to bring him to Dundee United.

"He possesses all the attributes you look for in a modern defender. He's physically strong, dominant in the air, comfortable on the ball and has shown real leadership qualities throughout his development.

"For someone still so young, he already has valuable experience at both club and international level, and we believe there's significant room for further growth in his game.

"We're excited to work with Michael and provide the platform for him to continue progressing. We believe Dundee United is the ideal environment for him to fulfil his potential."

READY FOR THE CHALLENGE

Forbes added: "I'm delighted to get everything completed and become a Dundee United player.

"I felt this was the right move at the right stage of my career. The club's ambitions match my own and I'm looking forward to taking on a new challenge and showing what I can do.

"The opportunity to test myself in the Scottish Premiership and work under the manager and coaching staff here was something that really appealed to me.

"I'm excited to meet the lads, get started in pre-season and do everything I can to help the team achieve success.

"I can't wait to play in front of the supporters at Tannadice and hopefully create some special memories over the next few years."

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