COURIER SPORT understands that Gary Harkins’ proposed loan move to former club Dundee from Kilmarnock has hit a major stumbling block.
Both sides had agreed to the deal and it was thought that once the player had returned from holiday this week he would quickly agree personal terms with the Dark Blues.
However, it is believed that his advisors are now seeking a permanent move to Dens for the midfielder.
With Harkins under contract at Rugby Park, Kilmarnock would be entitled to compensation if they were to allow the player to leave for good.
The Dundee board must now weigh up whether they have the finances in place to pay a settlement and Harkins’ contract demands.
Dens Park boss Barry Smith had hoped that the 28-year-old’s arrival would provide his relegation battling squad as well as the club’s fans with a big boost ahead of Saturday’s game against Hibs at Easter Road.
Harkins was often an inspirational figure during his first spell with the Dark Blues after signing from Partick Thistle in 2009 for a fee believed to be in the region of £150,000.
He signed for Kilmarnock in June 2011 after being allowed to leave by Dundee under terms of a gentleman’s agreement reached when he answered a plea by the club to stay and help them escape relegation to the Second Division after they were docked 25 points for entering administration.
nrobertson@thecourier.co.uk