Middlesbrough are set to rival Hearts for Sammy Silvera's signature.
Record Sport exclusively revealed the Jambos' interest in the Central Coast Mariners star and that a first bid from the capital club had been rejected. Now it's understood that Michael Carrick is also keen on the Aussie wide man and will join the transfer battle. Plymouth Argyle have also had offers knocked back for the 22-year-old as they try to tempt him to England's south coast following their promotion to the second tier.
There is also significant interest from Asia, with clubs there prepared to offer big money to attract players. With Boro also in the mix, it's likely that Hearts could be priced out of a move if a bidding war escalates, with Mariners thought to be holding out for a high six-figure sum minimum in order to let Silvera depart the club after scoring in their 6-1 Grand Final victory over Melbourne City.
Steven Naismith remains on the hunt for a winger and forward options. If Silvera proves too expensive then attention may turn to Kanji Okunuki. The Gornik Zabrze man has already been enquired about as a back up option to Silvera. Hearts are also still trying to do a deal for compatriot Ruki Handa but further negotiation with Gamba Osaka is required.
Josh Ginnelly's contract expired at the end of May and as yet, hasn't re-signed with Hearts as he considers his options, with English Championship clubs also interested in the former Preston North End man. Naismith's squad returned to pre-season training on Tuesday, minus their international players, who have been given extra time off.
The Tynecastle squad jet out to Spain on Friday for a warm weather training camp ahead of the Premiership season restarting and their Europa Conference League third round qualifying tie. Ironically, they will face transfer rivals Plymouth while over there in a friendly.
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