Hearts have bolstered their squad this afternoon after announcing the signing of Alex Cochrane from Brighton and Hove Albion.
The Jambos are looking forward to reestablishing themselves as a force in the Premiership next season after a year playing their football in the Championship and one area Robbie Neilson needs to prioritise strengthening is his defence.
That has led to Cochrane's arrival on a one-year loan deal - despite the England Under-20 left-back playing for Hibs' partner club, Brighton.
The Hibees announced their new partnership with the Seagulls in May, and it was thought Jack Ross' side could be set to benefit by borrowing some of their most promising youngsters.
But, instead, it's Hearts who have moved first, with the 21-year-old presented at Tynecastle earlier today, having spent last season on-loan with Belgian side Royale Union Saint-Gilloise, where he played his part in helping them to the Belgian First Division B title.
Speaking to the Official Hearts Website about the move, manager Neilson said: “I’m delighted to get the deal done for Alex to join us for the season ahead.
"He's a very highly-rated player with a good pedigree so I’m looking forward to working with him.
“He’ll provide competition in the left side of defence, and his arrival also gives us the flexibility to change formation should we need to.”
