Hearts face a fight to land goalkeeper Craig Gordon after Derby County entered the race for his signature.
The Jambos have offered the Scotland ‘keeper a two year deal and it’s understood Gordon is keen on a return to Tynecastle.
That is also thought to include the option of a 12-month extension after two years and there is also the opportunity for Gordon to work towards his coaching qualifications.
He knocked back the offer of a new contract from Celtic after citing an “enormous” pay cut from his last deal, as well as turning down the chance to sign for St Mirren.
Gordon’s last appearance for the Hoops came back in December during their 2-0 Europa League defeat in Cluj.
Neil Lennon’s pursuit of Fraser Forster means Gordon would likely be back up once again at Celtic Park, whereas a switch to his boyhood club would see him play regularly.
But Derby are are reportedly keen to sign the 37-year-old with the Rams facing a goalkeeping crisis.
First choice Ben Hamer is on loan from Huddersfield but will head back to the Terriers when the season has concluded.
Hamer arrived at Pride Park after Scott Carson was loaned to Manchester City for the season, but with City keen to keep Carson for another season, Derby are in need of another option between the sticks for next season.
And they see Gordon as a good, experienced option as they aim for promotion to the English Premier League.
Hearts remain the favourites to land the former Sunderland ‘keeper, and the appointment of Gordon’s ex-teammate Robbie Neilson as manager shouldn’t hurt their chances of getting him.
Hearts were chasing Gordon six years ago for their first crack at the Championship title and the move looked on until Celtic swooped, offering the ‘keeper a chance of trophies and a salary Hearts could only dream of affording.
But it seems a return to his formative club 13 years after he became the most expensive British goalkeeper in history at the time, joining Sunderland for a fee of £9million.
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