Gold Coast United has released Dutch star Paul Beekmans from the remainder of his contract on compassionate grounds.

The midfielder returned to Holland earlier this month to be with relatives, due to an illness in the family. The A-League club has since confirmed the condition has worsened.

Beekmans will therefore remain in his homeland indefinitely.

Gold Coast CEO, Clive Mensink, said the club fully supported the vice captain's request.

"We were contacted by Paul over the weekend and given the very difficult circumstances he faces with the illness in his family we have agreed to cease his commitments to the club," Mr Mensink said.

United take on Melbourne Victory at Aurora Stadium on Wednesday night.