MIDFIELDER Aaron Splaine has become the fourth confirmed departure from Dunfermline.

The 21-year-old former Kilmarnock and Queen of the South player will leave the club when his current contract runs out at the end of the month, the Pars have announced.

He joins Conner Duthie, Scott Lochhead and Michael Paton in not being offered deals for next season as boss Allan Johnston seeks to rebuild his squad.

Splaine, who worked with Johnston at his previous clubs, arrived at East End Park last summer but, after 12 appearances, his season ended prematurely in November when he suffered a horror leg-break in a Fife Cup tie with Burntisland Shipyard.

Despite making significant progress in his recovery, he has been told that he will not be part of the club's plans next season.

Athletic also confirmed that Paton, 29, will also depart after three seasons at the club.

The midfielder had announced the news on Wednesday on social media, commenting: "Its been a pleasure @officialdafc . Great bunch of boys . Good luck for the future".

This morning's news follows yesterday's confirmation that Lee Ashcroft, Lee Robinson and James Craigen have all penned new contracts with the club.

Speculation has linked both Fraser Aird and Nicky Clark with moves elsewhere, but Press Sport understands both have been offered new contracts by the club.