The Edinburgh club is revamping their squad this January, with head coach Neil Critchley providing an update on Hearts’ transfer activity ahead of their Premiership clash against Aberdeen on Sunday. Critchley revealed that discussions are ongoing with multiple players, as Kye Rowles and Liam Boyce near potential exits.
Rowles is close to a £600,000 move to MLS side DC United, while Boyce is finalizing a transfer to Northern Ireland’s Derry City and may not feature against Aberdeen. “Nothing is agreed yet, so he’s still our player,” Critchley said about Rowles. “He’s available for Sunday as of now, but things can change quickly.”
Critchley praised Rowles for his contributions, emphasizing the club’s reluctance to lose him. On Boyce, Critchley added: “He’s in talks with another club. It’s a decision he’s making for his family, and if it happens, we’ll wish him the best.”
Australian midfielder Cammy Devlin has attracted interest from MLS club New York City and Portsmouth in the English Championship, but no official bids have been made. Addressing rumors about a £280,000 release clause in Devlin’s contract, Critchley expressed frustration over leaked information. “Some leaks cross the line and don’t help anyone. We’ve had no contact from other clubs regarding Cammy,” he said.
Devlin, who extended his Hearts contract until 2026 just four months ago, remains a key part of the squad. Former director Joe Savage confirmed the release clause was added after he departed the club last May. However, Critchley refused to confirm its existence, stating, “I don’t discuss players’ contracts.”
In team news, midfielder Beni Baningime is expected to return this weekend after recovering from illness, while goalkeeper Zander Clark has resumed training following a knee issue. Additionally, Calem Nieuwenhof, Gerald Taylor, and Elton Kaganbu are edging closer to availability, with Kaganbu’s work permit finally secured.
