Hearts have confirmed they have held signing talks with two transfer targets already.
The Jambos are on a mission to strengthen ahead of their return to the Scottish Premiership, and Robbie Neilson along with sporting director Joe Savage have already opened discussions with potential recruits.
A centre-back is top of the shopping list after the departure of Christophe Berra, while Shay Logan wasn’t offered a contract to allow Michael Smith to revert back to right-back.
Neilson is also keen to add a creative midfielder, with Hearts labouring on several occasions last season to break down their stubborn Championship opponents.
Aaron McEneff has shown promise as a box to box option but someone with the ability and vision to unlock teams that sit in is also required.
The squad aren’t due to report back until 15 June for pre-season training, and while leagues down south and across Europe have not long finished, Neilson and Savage are keen to get as much of their business done as early as possible.
“We still have a list and there are a couple we've spoken to. It's still early days,” Neilson told the Edinburgh Evening News.
“A lot of leagues are just finishing at the moment. Your first targets will have other options as well so you are waiting to see what they decide. We know who we're after, it's just a case of seeing if we can get the deals done.”
Talks are also continuing with Josh Ginnelly over a permanent switch to Tynecastle.
The on-loan Preston winger impressed despite having his appearances limited by injury, and both parties are keen for an agreement to be reached that would see him relocate to Edinburgh this summer.
His Preston contract isn’t due to expire at the end of the June however, and the 24-year-old must wrap things up there before he commits to Hearts.
