Hearts sign forward Craig Wighton from Dundee

Craig Wighton has completed his move to Hearts from Dundee for an undisclosed fee.

Hearts have signed forward Craig Wighton from Dundee. Pic: Heart of Midlothian FC

The forward signed a three-year contract at Tynecastle Park and could make his debut this weekend against St Mirren.

Wighton is a Scotland Under-21 internationalist who Hearts want to develop into a useful asset, similar to John Souttar following his arrival from Dundee United in 2016.

He admitted he was desperate to move to the Edinburgh club once he heard of their interest.

"When I first heard, I straightaway knew what I wanted; I wanted to come here," he told Hearts TV. "When a club like Hearts comes in for you then you can’t turn that down. I just wanted to come here as soon as I found out and I’m glad it’s done.

"The club paying a fee does make you feel wanted. I think that’s important. You want to feel wanted. There is a manager here who I’ve known for a number of years and always got on well with so it’s good to have that as well.

"The fact that Hearts have paid money shows that they wanted me to come and I hope to repay them. Hearts giving young players a chance is a massive factor in me joining. Wherever you go you need to look at the history of the club.

"The young boys have played throughout the years but especially in the last couple of seasons. You’ve got a lot of good young players and they’re getting a chance at such a big club so it’s positive. I’m absolutely delighted to be here and I can’t wait to get started with the game at the weekend.”

The Dundee manager Neil McCann conceded Wighton needed to move on from Dens Park. "I have been in the exact same position as Craig, having come through the ranks at this very club, and maybe he did need to freshen it up," said McCann.

"He felt it was maybe the right time for him to go. The club had to be comfortable with the money they were receiving and I believe they are. And I wish him every success at his new club."