Hearts deadline Q&A: Jason Cummings, Bradford Jamieson IV, loans out and Stephen Kingsley latest

Zdenek Zlamal looks likely to stay at Hearts.

Q: What’s the latest with Stephen Kingsley?

A: It’s a waiting game for both parties. Hearts need to balance the books and get somebody out before they can bring another one in. The player is open to a move to Hearts.

Q: Any plans to loan out players like Harry Cochrane and Anthony McDonald?

A: They will loan out a few younger players in the next two or three weeks. McDonald is injured at the moment, so he’s in a different position, but like Cochrane, he is one of the younger players who could be loaned out if they can’t make an impact at first-team level.

Q: Any substance to rumours concerning American striker Bradford Jamieson IV?

A: We’ve put that name to the club and it was a no, but never say never.

Q: Any chance of signing a new striker before the window ends?

A: It’s very unlikely at this stage. Liam Boyce is on international duty so Craig Wighton will start off as the No.9, while Steven Naismith and Jordan Roberts can also fill in there.

Q: Is Jason Cummings on the radar as another striking option?

A: No! This one has cropped up for a few windows now, and it’s same answer every time ...

Q: What chance of Bobby Zlamal leaving permanently?

A: Not at the moment. He is settled with his family in Scotland and spoke in the summer about fighting for his spot at Hearts. He’s unlikely to oust Craig Gordon but believes he has a future at the club.

Q: How bad is Christophe Berra’s injury?

A: He’s due to be back running in the next couple of weeks, but as he’s missed the entire pre-season period, he’s unlikely to feature for the next six weeks.

Q: Do we have any sell-on clauses in the Aaron Hickey deal?

A: Pass! Everything surrounding that deal was kept top secret, although we do know that Hearts were pushing for a number of clauses.

Q: Has Harry Stone been earmarked for a loan move?

A: He will go on loan at some point as Hearts coaching staff want him to experience first-team football before he plays in maroon.

Q: What’s the situation with Loic Damour? He’s barely featured in pre-season …

A: He’s had a niggly ankle injury, so that’s why he hasn’t been involved in pre-season matches.