The former Brann player will return to his home state at the end of the current A-League campaign.

He will no doubt be hoping a permanent switch Down Under will boost his chances of winning a regular spot in Pim Verbeek's senior international squad.

As well as securing 25-year-old Thwaite, Gold Coast have officially confirmed the signing of Queensland Roar youngster Tahj Minniecon.

He has penned a three-year deal with United and will become the club’s under-23 marquee signing.

A club statment read: "One of the hottest young properties in the country, 19-year-old Minniecon will add another dimension to the United attack with pace and power his trademark.

"An Under-17 and Under-20 international for Australia, most pundits predict a big future for the Cairns-born striker who has the ability to terrorise defences in the Hyundai A-League."

Gold Coast are also thought to be close to completing a deal for Socceroo midfielder Jason Culina.


CONFIRMED ROSTER TO DATE (18 players):
Goalkeepers: Jess Vanstrattan, Scott Higgins.
Defenders: Adam Griffiths, Daniel Piorkowski, Kristian Rees, Michael Thwaite.
Midfielders: Matt Osman, Steve Fitzsimmons, Zenon Caravella, Steve Pantelidis, James Brown, Robson, Jefferson, Richard Greer.
Strikers: Shane Smeltz, Andrew Barisic, Milson, Tahj Minniecon.