Hearts manager Robbie Neilson insists that the Jambos are looking at more than just Lawrence Shankland as options for a new striker.
The Scotland international moved to Belgium with Beerschot last season and Hearts have been strongly linked with bringing him back to the Premiership a year after leaving Dundee United. It's a player Neilson knows well after working with the former Ayr United forward during their time together at Tannadice.
Everton forward Ellis Simms has also been suggested as an option after a positive loan spell at Tynecastle last season, although he is currently in America with the English Premier League club on a pre-season tour. Numerous targets are being lined up amid the Shankland pursuit, Neilson telling Edinburgh Evening News: "He's still a Beerschot player, so there’s no movement. I'm sure there are a lot of teams interested in him. But we're still looking to strengthen in that area.
READ MORE: Robbie Neilson details Hearts selection plans with high volume of games ahead of European adventure
"We have a number of targets. We have to do that.”
It's been a busy summer at Tynecastle, with Lewis Neilson, Alan Forrest, Kye Rowles, Alex Cochrane and Jorge Grant signing permanent deals
Sign up to Edinburgh Live newsletters for more headlines straight to your inbox .
Hearts continue their pre-season preparations today against Crawley Town after a midweek win at English League Two side Tranmere Rovers.
READ NEXT:
- Kye Rowles' Hearts role detailed as Robbie Neilson pinpoints position in line-up
- Robbie Neilson opens up on the Hearts plan to prepare side for European adventure
- Ben Woodburn confirms next move after Liverpool exit and Hearts loan as he could become defender
- Hearts boss Robbie Neilson explains friendship with Hibs gaffer Lee Johnson as he fires warning
