Deadline Day Movements at Tynecastle: Hearts Wrap Up Business with Key Additions and Potential Departures
Hearts are expected to see some transfer activity on deadline day, with Harry Milne becoming the club’s fifth signing of the window after completing a medical this afternoon. The 28-year-old left-back makes the step up from the Championship, joining from Partick Thistle, and will compete with James Penrice for a spot at Tynecastle Park. Milne joins recent additions Elton Kabangu, Jamie McCart, Michael Steinwender, and Sander Kartum.
While no further arrivals are anticipated before the 11 p.m. deadline, Hearts are negotiating the potential exit of Malachi Boateng. The club has already seen Liam Boyce, Kye Rowles, Daniel Oyegoke, and Andrés Salazar depart this month. Here’s the current situation on key transfer topics:
HARRY MILNE
Milne’s arrival bolsters Hearts’ options at left-back, with Penrice the only experienced player in that position following Stephen Kingsley’s injury and the early termination of Salazar’s loan from Atlético Nacional. The sale of Kye Rowles to DC United has also left a gap in defensive depth.
ISLAM CHESNOKOV
Hearts made an approach last month for the Kazakhstani international winger, who remains a target despite ongoing challenges in negotiations with Tobol Kostanay. Chesnokov’s contract expires in November, leaving the door open for further talks.
DANNY ARMSTRONG
Discussions with Kilmarnock winger Danny Armstrong over a pre-contract deal have been held, but no agreement has been reached. With interest from other Scottish and English clubs, Hearts will wait to see how the situation develops.
NEW FORWARD
While not a pressing need, Hearts remain open to adding another attacker. The current forward line—Kabangu, Lawrence Shankland, Musa Drammeh, and Kenneth Vargas—impressed in the recent 6-0 win over Dundee, with youngster James Wilson also showing promise. However, the club won’t make a signing unless it significantly strengthens the squad.
LAWRENCE SHANKLAND
Despite interest from Turkey, Hearts captain Lawrence Shankland remains at Tynecastle. He starred in the win over Dundee, scoring and assisting. Although his contract expires at the season’s end, any deadline-day move would require a late development.
JORGE GRANT
Grant has drawn attention from English Football League clubs after being left out of the squad against Dundee, despite scoring in the prior match. Head coach Neil Critchley stated the omission was due to rest. With his contract up in the summer, Hearts may consider offers received before the deadline.
YUTARO ODA
Out of favour at Tynecastle, Oda is attracting interest, particularly from Japanese side Sanfrecce Hiroshima. Hearts are open to moving him on, with his current contract running until 2026.
BARRIE McKAY
Similar to Oda, McKay is likely to leave as he seeks to revive his career. The 30-year-old winger, out of contract this summer, has generated interest from clubs in Scotland and England.
MALACHI BOATENG
Talks are ongoing with Plymouth Argyle over a move for Boateng, who joined Hearts from Crystal Palace in August. Argyle, now managed by Miron Muslic, are keen to secure his services.
ETHAN DRYSDALE
Teenage left-back Ethan Drysdale is heading out on loan to Partick Thistle, with Harry Milne making the opposite switch in a permanent deal. This move provides Drysdale with valuable first-team experience while addressing Thistle’s need for a left-back.
As the clock ticks down to the deadline, Hearts’ focus remains on fine-tuning their squad with strategic decisions rather than last-minute panic buys.
