Japanese right back Riku Handa is being chased by Hearts.
Steven Naismith is in the market for that position after the long-serving Michael Smith left the club at the end of the season when his contract expired. Australian international Nathaniel Atkinson impressed during Naismith’s interim spell in charge over the final games of the season, but competition is needed on the right hand side of defence and Record Sport can confirm the capital club are interested in Riku.
Japanese outlet Hochi is reporting the Jambos have made a loan offer to the 21-year-old’s current club, Gamba Osaka. The offer is said to include an option to make the move permanent. Handa only joined Gamba this season, making the step up from Yamagata and has established himself as first choice. The Under 22 international also received his first call-up to the full national squad in March and is thought to be keen to try his luck overseas to further enhance his prospects with the Samurai Blue.
