Hearts have been linked with a pre-contract move for Kilmarnock defender Stuart Findlay.
The Scotland cap’s deal at Rugby Park expires at the end of the season and Robbie Neilson is reportedly keen on snapping him up on a free transfer.
The Jambos employed a similar tactic to recruit Craig Halkett from Livingston in 2019, signing the player in January before he linked up with the side at the end of the campaign.
Dundee United were linked with a move for the former Celtic trainee in the summer, while Oxford United were also rumoured to be considering a bid for the 25-year-old.
Neilson is desperate to add to his back line with Christophe Berra recently turning 36 and Mihai Popescu failing to convince alongside former Livingston man Halkett.
Killie parted company with manager Alex Dyer following their 3-2 defeat to St Johnstone at Rugby Park on Saturday, a game in which they led 2-0.
Findlay thrived under Dyer and former boss Steve Clarke, who handed him a Scotland debut against San Marino when the defender scored in a 6-0 win.
Hearts are believed to be leading the chase for Findlay, but according to the Edinburgh Evening News, are also chasing a right back and central midfielder.
The Tynecastle club also want to recruit cover in a wide position after it was confirmed Josh Ginnelly’s season had been ended by injury.
