Hearts boss in talks with two free-agent strikers

Hearts are in talks with two unnamed strikers as manager Craig Levein tries to reinforce his forward line through the free agent market.

Craig Levein is weighing up his player options

Levein is negotiating with one British and one foreign forward but has yet to decide which one is the best option.

Finalising a deal before Saturday’s Scottish Cup fifth-round tie with St Johnstone is unlikely. If discussions reach a successful conclusion, the new man is expected to arrive next week.

Levein tried to recruit a forward before last week’s transfer deadline to compete with Kyle Lafferty and Steven Naismith. He is now looking at unattached players who can sign outwith the transfer window.

“I’m working on a couple of things but I don’t think I’ll have anything done for the weekend. Maybe next week,” he told the Evening News.

“Striker is the only position I’m looking at.

“I haven’t made my mind up yet what is the best option and there is quite a lot of stuff still to be sorted out. That’s why I don’t think it will be done before the weekend.”

Midfield injuries are causing Levein concern ahead of the cup tie. Don Cowie is still recovering from a tight hamstring but Hearts are hopeful he will declare himself fit. Harry Cochrane is still out, while Ross Callachan and new signing Joaquim Adao are doubtful.

“Don has a chance of being fit for the weekend if he can train,” said Levein.

“Callachan had a thigh problem, he is better and might train today. Harry won’t make this weekend.

“Adao has really tight calves so I’ll have to see how he is. I’m conscious that he hasn’t played much in the last few months so we need to be careful with him.”