Hearts face a major battle to retain Josh Ginnelly with THREE English Championship sides offering him contracts, according to a report.
Several teams in England's League One are also keen on the attacker while Maccabi Haifa hold an interest and are able to offer the prospect of Champions League football. The 26-year-old is wanted for a long-term stay in the capital with Hearts also putting forward their best deal and waiting on a final response say Edinburgh Evening News.
The attacker fired 13 goals in 41 appearances last term with only skipper Lawrence Shankland hitting the back of the net more than his team-mate. Tynecastle officials have made the strongest pitch they can with the ball now firmly in Ginnelly's court.
READ MORE: Hearts to face Plymouth Argyle in Spain as Jambos confirm plans for warm-weather pre-season camp
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Speaking previously, Naismith revealed he had spoken to the player. He said: “I've given my view and it's an honest view. I haven't tried to pull the wool over his eyes in any way.
“I experienced moving clubs, I experienced very good moments at clubs and how quickly it can change. I gave Josh my opinion and I have a good relationship with him. As players, we played well together and got on and I think he respects me. Ultimately, it will be down to him.
“Gino's performances this season have been the most consistent since he's been here, and probably the most consistent in his career. That puts him in a position where he's got that leverage to go to the club or whoever and get the best deal possible.
“When you are younger, that predominantly comes down to money, but as you get older there are more factors to it than just money. I think Gino is sensible enough to weigh it all up before making his decision.”
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