IAN HARTE today pulled the plug on a move to St Mirren after performing a dramatic U-turn.

The Republic of Ireland internationalist was expected to make his debut for the Paisley club in tomorrow's Scottish Cup clash with Motherwell.

But the full-back decided to turn down the opportunity to sign for Gus MacPherson's side at the last minute.

SportTimes understand Harte has agreed a deal with the SPL club that would have made him the biggest earner in the club's history - but wanted Saints to increase that offer further.

Despite travelling as far north as Gretna, the 31-year-old full-back called manager Gus MacPherson and informed him he was having second thoughts and would be returning to discuss the move over with his family.

But Harte confirmed today he wouldn't be joining Saints. He said: "The deal won't be going ahead now. I won't be joining St Mirren.

"I just didn't feel it was the right move for me and I've had a long chat with Gus MacPherson to explain that. Now I'm just looking for another club in England."

Saints boss MacPherson confirmed: "We're very disappointed as we thought Ian was joining us until the end of the season.

"He is an experienced player and it would have been fantastic to have brought him on board but unfortunately he has decided to look at other options."

The deal offered to Harte was similar to the offer tabled for Rangers defender Steven Smith last week, although that deal couldn't be agreed either because of SPL rules on loan signings.