Hearts dismiss link with Northern Ireland youngster Trai Hume

Hearts are linked with interest in Trai Hume (right) pictured in action for Northern Ireland during an U19 international friendly match against Germany on November 18, 2019 (Photo by Charles McQuillan/Getty Images for DFB)

The 18-year-old right-back has made 14 appearances for Ballymena United in the Danske Bank Premiership this season, scoring one goal, having joined them on loan from league rivals Linfield in September.

Hearts were reported to be among a number of clubs pursuing the Northern Ireland youth international, with English Championship side Stoke City also said to be keen on the versatile youngster, who can also play in a variety of positions across defence and midfield.

Upon securing the loan move for Hume in September, Ballymena boss David Jeffrey said: "His attitude is exemplary and his ability actually leads people to still wonder where exactly is his best position, because he's equally adept in the centre at the back, on the right, in the middle of the park, but what we do know is that we've signed an excellent young footballer who is certainly not a jack of all trades and a master of none."

Hearts boss Robbie Neilson had previously hinted that the club would be open

to returning to the Irish market following the recent acquisition of Aaron McEneff from Shamrock Rovers in the Republic of Ireland.

However, The Evening News now understands that the youngster is not on the

list of potential Tynecastle targets.

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