Hearts are entering a hugely important summer transfer window. After failing to look as dominant as supporters wished in winning the Scottish champions, with a route opening up to seriously challenge for a top four position in their first campaign back, the onus is on manager Robbie Neilson, sporting director Joe Savage and the club’s board to ensure a productive few months in which the team is properly shaped and ready to challenge at the top end of the Premiership.
But what can history tell us about what to expect? We look back at the previous 12 summer transfer windows and pick out the best signing made by the club in each of those.
1. 2020: Craig Gordon
A Player of the Year contender and someone who routinely saved Hearts in moments when they weren't at their best. Honourable mention: Stephen Kingsley Photo: Craig Williamson - SNS Group
2. 2019: Craig Halkett
Says a lot that this was the best signing. Hasn't come close to living up to the hype, but has been mostly fit, which is enough to put him above a few others. Honourable mention: Nobody Photo: Alan Rennie - SNS Group
3. 2018: Peter Haring
Signed to be third-choice centre-back, ended up being one of the league's premier centre-midfielders. Honourable mention: Steven Naismith (loan), Jimmy Dunne (loan) Photo: SNS Group Bruce White
4. 2017: Kyle Lafferty
Signed, scored goals in big games, sold on for profit. Honourable mentions: Michael Smith, Christophe Berra, Jon McLaughlin Photo: SNS Group Ross Parker