Hearts are looking into a potential swoop for Japanese right-back Riku Handa as the Jambos look to fill their defensive void during the transfer window.
The Gambo Osaka star, 21, has caught the attention of Tynecastle chiefs, who are reported to be interested in a loan with the option of a permanent transfer, writes the Edinburgh Evening News. Handa is looking to his compatriots at Celtic and their success as he aims to further his career in Europe, with Yutaro Oda also on the rise in Gorgie.
The Japanese defender is quick and attack-minded at right-back, and has most recently been called into Japan’s senior international squad in March and has played for his country at Under-23 level. Michael Smith's departure last month has forced Hearts to scour the market for a full-back, and Handa is one name who has been high on their list of potential targets.
