Tannadice trio told to leave club
Derek McInnes has one year left on his United contract
Dundee United manager Craig Brewster is planning a clear-out of experienced players, BBC Sport understands.
Three of the club's highest earners; Paul Ritchie, Derek McInnes and David Fernandez have all been told they have no future at Tannadice.
Former Celtic forward Fernandez arrived on a three-year deal last August.
Midfielder McInnes and former Scotland defender Ritchie, who have both skippered the club this term, have one year to run on their contracts.
Dundee United have won just twice since Brewster replaced the sacked Gordon Chisholm in January.
Releasing the players prematurely won't be cheap, but it appears the manager has his sights set on rebuilding his squad for next season.
McInnes, 34, who can count Morton, Rangers and West Bromich Albion among his former clubs, has been at United for three years.
And ex-Hearts and Rangers centre-half Ritchie, 30, arrived on Tayside in the summer of 2004.
Spaniard Fernandez, 32, has played 29 games since his switch to United and has scored seven times.
Correct QB. They will save on wages but it will take a few spondoolachs to say goodbye. :D