Mickael Buscher has received international clearance

But the 21-year-old will not arrive at Raydale Park until Monday and will miss out on Saturday's visit to Glasgow to face Rangers.

Horwood, who has yet to make his full debut for the Blades, finished last season on loan at Darlington.

Gretna manager David Irons told BBC Sport: "He is a left sided player who can play at the back or midfield."

Irons did not expect any further transfer activity before the closure of the transfer window on Friday.

But he was still hopeful of signing goalkeeper Tony Caig before January's tranfer window.

Vancouver Whitecaps have refused to release the former Hibernian and Newcastle United player in time for him to meet the deadline.

MY SPORT: DEBATE Give your reaction to Gretna's latest signing

But Gretna have appealed for assistance from the Scottish FA in their attempt to gain clearance once he comes to the end of his contract with the MLS outfit.

"They have different transfer windows over there and the system does not seem to cater for moves between continents," complained Irons.

"Hopefully, it will work in Tony's favour as this grey area seems set to prevent him seeking employment over here."