Dundee United have completed the permanent signing of goalkeeper Jack Walton from Preston North End, with the 28-year-old agreeing a three-year contract.
The English shot-stopper returns to Tannadice Park after a previous two-season loan spell from Luton Town between 2023 and 2025, during which he made 85 appearances.
In his first stint, Walton kept 19 clean sheets in 36 league games, helping the club win the Championship title and later secure a European qualification spot in the Scottish Premiership.
Walton moved to Preston North End last summer as a backup, featuring in two Carabao Cup matches and three league games, including a 4-0 loss against Middlesbrough and an emergency loan at Cambridge United.
Manager and Player React
Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin expressed his delight at the transfer, highlighting Walton's previous impact.
"Jack was exceptional for us across the two seasons he was here," Goodwin said on the club's official website.
Goodwin praised Walton's consistency, leadership, and familiarity with the squad.
"His performances, consistency and leadership qualities made him one of the standout goalkeepers in the country during his time here previously," he added.
The manager noted that Walton brings calmness and authority to the defensive unit and sets a professional example in training.
"He brings calmness and authority to the defensive unit, while his professionalism and mentality set a fantastic example around the training ground every single day," Goodwin said.
Walton expressed his excitement about returning permanently. "I'm absolutely delighted to be back.
Dundee United is a club that means a lot to me," he said.
The goalkeeper recalled the achievements from his previous tenure, including promotion and European qualification.
"Winning promotion and then helping the club achieve European football made it a really special period," Walton added.
Walton stated he was keen to make the move happen as soon as the opportunity arose.
"As soon as I became aware of the opportunity to come back, it was something I really wanted to make happen," he said.
The transfer leaves Preston North End with Daniel Iversen and Li-Bau Stowell as their contracted goalkeepers, while contract discussions continue with Dai Cornell.
