Accused of not looking at the domestic market, here are some options the Jambos could consider
Lewis Mayo (Kilmarnock)
Derek McInnes has built a side which is very strong at the back and the former Rangers youngster has been a big part of that.
Has also shown his versatility by playing at right-back and centre half, although wouldn’t really be the style Hearts would be looking for to fill the void on the right.
Another who shone in the win over Celtic yesterday.
Contracted until: May 2026
Transfermarkt value: £427k
Stuart Findlay (Kilmarnock)
Another one that could be realistic in that Findlay is only on loan at Killie from Oxford United.
There were also previous links to both Hearts and Hibs during his first spell at Rugby Park, with the defender instead opting to take the plunge and try out MLS with Philadelphia Union.
He didn’t play much but got his career back on track in League One down south before a change of manager meant he no longer fit with the plans. Now showing himself once again to be a good Scottish Premiership defender.
Contracted until: June 2026 (with Oxford, on loan at Kilmarnock until May 2024)
Transfermarkt value: £385k
Robbie Deas (Kilmarnock)
You could actually pick out any one of Killie’s three main defenders…so we have!
Deas was the standout centre back in the Championship and there was surprise it took so long for a top flight side to swoop.
Killie are benefiting from being the ones who took the plunge as he carried on his form since making the switch. A big part of the early season wins over the Old Firm and again yesterday.
Contracted until: May 2025
Transfermarkt value: £470k
Keanu Baccus (St Mirren)
Along with Strain, his fellow Aussie has been a cut above for St Mirren, currently ahead of Hearts in the table.
Has attracted attention from England and has stated he would love to try it out down there after a move to Bolton collapsed last summer.
You’d think he could get a better club than that, in the Championship perhaps, but if nothing materialises then teams like Hearts, Hibs and Aberdeen should be looking.
Contracted until: May 2024
Transfermarkt value: £727k
Yan Dhanda (Ross County)
The creative midfielder is another who has been on the lips of Hearts fans.
Even though he appeared to be stifled at times under Malky Mackay, played quite deep and sometimes benched, you could see there was a player there.
Scored his only goal of the season since Derek Adams took over and will be looking to carry on that form – if he does calls for his signing will only grow.
Contracted until: May 2024
Transfermarkt value: £684k
Mika Biereth (Motherwell)
The Arsenal loanee has struggled with injuries in his short time at Fir Park (insert joke about fitting in at Hearts) but that hasn’t stopped him looking electric when he has played.
The Danish striker has scored five goals in nine games for the Steelmen, some of which were off the bench, and looks a real rounded threat as a centre forward.
He has pace and powerful running as well as being strong and good in the air and can certainly finish too.
On loan at Motherwell until the end of the season, at which point the Jambos could try and steal in and offer another year in the Premieership, or maybe even a permanent transfer.
Contracted until: On loan at Motherwell until May 2024, Arsenal details unknown
Transfermarkt value: £556k
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