AROUCA, PORTUGAL - AUGUST 10: Sander Kartum of SK Brann in action ,during the UEFA Conference League Third Qualifying Round-First Leg match between FC Arouca and SK Brann at Arouca Municipal Stadium on August 10, 2023 in Arouca, Portugal. (Photo by MB Media/Getty Images)
After addressing their defence and attack, Hearts have now turned their attention to strengthening the midfield.
In the January transfer window so far, the Jambos have brought in striker Elton Kabangu on loan from Union Saint-Gilloise, signed defender Jamie McCart from Rotherham, and are closing in on another centre-back, Michael Steinwender.
They’re also targeting a new winger, with ongoing talks for Kazakhstan international Islam Chesnokov and Kilmarnock’s Danny Armstrong. However, Armstrong may be a summer signing as he’s available on a pre-contract agreement.
Manager Neil Critchley is keen to add creativity to the midfield, which the team has been lacking. Reports this weekend suggest a central midfielder is now a priority.
Hearts Target Sander Kartum Transfer
According to Norwegian media, Hearts are close to signing Sander Kartum, a 29-year-old attacking midfielder from Brann. BT-Sporten reports that Kartum is “on his way” to Tynecastle, with a transfer agreement seemingly already in place.
If the deal goes through, Kartum could join Steinwender in signing this week, ahead of Hearts’ match against Kilmarnock. While a fee is required, it is expected to be modest, as Kartum turns 30 soon and is under contract until summer 2026.
Who is Sander Kartum?
Sander Kartum, a Norwegian midfielder, currently plays for Brann and has previously represented Kristiansund and Stjørdals-Blink.
Kartum was named the Norwegian second tier’s Player of the Season in 2020 during his time at Kristiansund. He continued to impress in the Eliteserien, scoring six goals and providing eight assists across two seasons, earning him a move to Brann in 2023.
He played a key role in Brann’s recent second-place league finish, just three points behind Bodo/Glimt, and was instrumental in their victory over St Mirren in the Conference League qualifiers earlier this season.
