Hearts' Juwon Oshaniwa says he is wanted by Turkish clubs

Juwon Oshaniwa claims two clubs in Turkey have contacted his agent with a view to signing the Hearts left-back.

Hearts' Juwon Oshaniwa in action against Partick Thistle. Picture: Ian Rutherford

Oshaniwa, 25, says he is flattered by the interest and is awaiting a response from the Tynecastle club.

The Nigerian international moved to Hearts last summer from Israeli side FC Ashdod and has had a difficult first season in Scotland. He was sent off twice but helped the club finish third to clinch a place in the Europa League.

Oshaniwa told the website HITC Sport that Turkish Super Lig teams Antalyaspor and Kayserispor were both weighing up moves for him.

“I believe there has been some contact from Antalyaspor and Kayserispor with my representative Ladi Salami,” Oshaniwa was quoted as saying.

“I am just waiting for the response from Hearts on the interest and if both teams agree then we will see what happens.

“Football is all about movement and as a player you want to progress as much as you can.

“It is flattering to attract interest from Antalyaspor and Kayserispor and Turkish football is interesting for me.”

Hearts announced the signing of left-back Faycal Rherras from Belgian side Sint-Truiden on Tuesday.

Despite the interest from Turkey, Oshaniwa said he is happy at Hearts.

“I am happy to stay at Hearts if they want me to stay,” Oshaniwa said. “It is a lovely club, with lovely people and lovely fans.

“To be part of a team that finished third in the championship and qualify for the Europa League was something special and the club wants to continue to progress.

“In the end Hearts will decide my future and if they do not want to sell me I will stay at the club.”