Robbie Neilson confirmed Hearts are looking to do a deal for Connor Ronan.
The former St Mirren loanee has been told he can leave Wolves if the right offer comes in, and the Jambos are one of the clubs keen to bring him back north. Jim Goodwin would like a reunion with the Irish midfielder at Aberdeen, but Hearts’ guaranteed European group stage football and the income that will generate could give them the edge.
The Pittodrie boss admitted he faces a tough fight to re-sign the player he helped get into the Ireland squad during his time in Paisley. However, the Molineux club are understood to be looking for around £500,000 to let Ronan go permanently, and that fee may have to come down before business can be done. Neilson admitted that Ronan is one of a number of players he and director of football Joe Savage are looking at. But the ball is in Wolves’ court as things stand and Hearts may have to be patient if they want to land the 24-year-old.
“He obviously did very well at St Mirren last year,” said Neilson. “He is one of a number of guys we are looking at right at the moment. He is a Wolves player and it will come down to what they want to do.”
Midfield isn’t the only area Neilson is looking to strengthen, however. He added: “Up front, at the back, midfield, everywhere. We just need to add a bit more and a bit more. Rowles and Atkinson will join us on Thursday. They will miss the next two friendly games but will join us for the match on Saturday.”
Neilson was speaking as Hearts’ week-long training stint at the La Cala resort came to end. The Jambos ran out 4-0 winners against Europa FC from Gibraltar in early evening temperatures of 30 degrees.
Gary Mackay-Steven gave them an early lead before Alan Forrest scored his first Hearts goal shortly after the break. Euan Henderson made it 3-0 before Forrest added his and Hearts’ fourth to complete the scoring.
It may be be very early days, but Neilson is happy with what he’s seen from his new recruit so far: "I was delighted with Alan. I thought all the boys did well in the game. Alan will improve more. He improved at Ayr and Livingston and hopefully he will get better here as well.
“I think he will be a good player for us. We are only a week in so it’s only early doors but I do think he gives you pace and directness.”
Lewis Neilson played 90 minutes on the right of a back three and the teenager also impressed the Gorgie gaffer, as did Connor Smith: “He is good, still a kid who is only 19,” said Neilson. I’m just delighted to get him because I think he will grow as a player.
“I thought Connor did well. We put him at centre-mid and then left wing-back. Technically, he is a very good player. Hopefully he improves over the season.
“It was the first pre-season game, nobody got injured and everybody got through it so I’m pleased. We got the new guys integrated into the squad and the fitness levels went up so it’s been a great trip.”
The friendlies now come thick and fast for Hearts. East Fife and Spartans provide the opposition on Tuesday and Wednesday night respectively, for which the Jambos will split their squad.
Bonnyrigg Rose then visit Tynecastle before a trip south to take on Tranmere Rovers then Preston North End. “We go back now and we are Tuesday, Wednesday, Saturday,” said Neilson. “Some young ones will come in to join the squad as well so I’m looking forward to it.”
Skipper Craig Gordon has been given some extra time off, while Craig Halkett isn’t yet ready to play games: "Craig won’t be involved on Tuesday or Wednesday either,” Neilson explained. “His first game will be the Bonnyrigg game, just to give him a bit of extra time.
“He could have stayed off with the Australian boys but he wanted to come train and be here. Halkett will be involved eventually but he is maybe another two or three weeks away. Probably around the Tranmere and Preston games.”
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