Hearts managerial target Daniel Stendel free to join new club as Barnsley contract is cancelled

Daniel Stendel has held talks with Hearts after leaving Barnsley

Hearts are continuing their pursuit of Daniel Stendel after weekend talks and are confident of avoiding a compensation bill if they appoint the former Barnsley manager.

Face-to-face discussions took place between Stendel and Tynecastle officials over the weekend as the Edinburgh club outlined their plans for a new coaching structure. However, they face stern competition from other clubs in England and abroad for the 45-year-old German.

Hearts want their new manager working alongside - but not under - a sporting director, with both men reporting directly to owner Ann Budge. Stendel is the latest to hold talks on the managerial vacancy after Stuart McCall, Steve Cotterill, Alan Irvine and Neil McCann.

Stendel was sacked as Barnsley manager last month and the English Championship club have since agreed to cancel the remainder of his contract, which ran until the end of the season.

Talks over a severance payment are ongoing but he is effectively free to join a new club. Hearts believe they would not need to pay compensation were they to appoint him, although they are aware of the interest from elsewhere.

The former Hannover coach is considering his options at the moment and is toying with the idea of taking a short break from football. He could be tempted into a quick return if he finds the right club.

Stendel is based in the north of England and is keen to continue his career south of the Border, although he has not dismissed the idea of working in Scotland. He already refused some offers from other clubs prior to speaking with Hearts.