Ray McKinnon is set to become the new Dundee United boss after resigning as manager of Raith Rovers.

The 45-year-old has held discussions with members of the Tannadice hierarchy over the past three days and the former United star is now set to lead the Tayside club in the Scottish Championship next season.

Raith chief executive Eric Drysdale says the search has already started to find McKinnon's replacement, telling his club's website: "Everyone at the club is naturally very disappointed that Ray has reached this decision, and we certainly did everything in our power, and then more, to try to retain his services but he leaves Raith Rovers with thanks and best wishes for the future.

"Ray has built a terrific squad of players with tremendous team spirit, and that will be his legacy."

United, who were docked three points and fined after listing two ineligible players in the squad to face Inverness, are seeking a replacement for Mixu Paatelainen, who was sacked following the club's relegation to the Championship.

McKinnon, who enjoyed two playing spells with the Terrors, started his managerial career at Lochee United before taking charge of Brechin City.

His success at Glebe Park led him to join Championship side Rovers in May 2015 following Grant Murray's departure.

McKinnon led Rovers to the Premiership play-offs where they went down 2-1 to Hibernian in the quarter-final.