EDINBURGH, SCOTLAND - DECEMBER 19: James Wilson of Heart of Midlothian FC celebrates scoring his team's first goal during the UEFA Conference League 2024/25 League Phase MD6 match between Heart of Midlothian FC and FC Petrocub at Tynecastle Stadium on December 19, 2024 in Edinburgh, Scotland. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Hearts are making significant moves to bolster their squad with overseas signings while also keeping an eye on Scotland’s best young talents.
The club has already secured striker Elton Kabangu on loan from Union Saint-Gilloise, with an option to buy, and brought in defender Jamie McCart on a permanent deal from Rotherham. Additionally, Hearts are close to signing Michael Steinwender, a central defender from Swedish side IFK Värnamo, and are in talks with Tobol Kostanay’s Ukrainian winger Islam Chesnokov.
Now, Hearts are reportedly set to bring in a promising midfielder from closer to home.
Hearts Target Celtic Youngster Aiden Haddow
According to the Daily Record, Hearts are lining up a move for 19-year-old Aiden Haddow, who is set to leave Celtic when his contract expires this summer. The Jambos are looking to complete the deal this week.
Haddow, a central midfielder, has featured in the Lowland League with Celtic B and in the UEFA Youth League, where he recorded an assist against Slovan Bratislava. He signed a full-time contract with Celtic in 2022 but is not expected to remain at the club beyond this year.
Described as ‘Technically Gifted’
Celtic fan site Celts Are Here has praised Haddow as a “technically gifted” midfielder with a sharp “eye for a pass.” They believe his release is an excellent opportunity for Hearts to secure a top talent.
Initially, Haddow is expected to join the Hearts B team, which also competes in the Lowland League. This move aligns with Neil Critchley’s approach, as he has given significant playing time to academy graduates Adam Forrester, James Wilson, and Macaulay Tait this season.
