SHREWSBURY, ENGLAND - SEPTEMBER 28: George Lloyd of Shrewsbury Town and Jamie McCart of Rotherham United during the Sky Bet League One match between Shrewsbury Town FC and Rotherham United FC at Montgomery Waters Meadow on September 28, 2024 in Shrewsbury, England. (Photo by James Baylis - AMA/Getty Images)
Hearts are intensifying their transfer efforts as they look to escape their current struggles.
Elton Kabangu was their first signing of the January window, arriving on loan from Union Saint-Gilloise. The Jambos acted quickly as the window opened, aiming to add much-needed speed and goal-scoring threat to their attack. The versatile Belgian forward, capable of playing centrally or out wide, is seen as a solution to these issues.
However, Hearts are unlikely to stop there. Hull City winger Ryan Longman has also been linked, but the need for reinforcements extends beyond the attack.
Defensive issues have plagued Neil Critchley’s side, compounded by long-term injuries to Stephen Kingsley and Frankie Kent. With both defenders potentially sidelined for the season, Hearts urgently require centre-backs. One target is Rotherham United’s Jamie McCart, and there has been progress on that front.
Hearts and Jamie McCart
Reports suggested that Hearts were considering whether to sign McCart in January or secure him on a pre-contract for the summer. While Rotherham held an option to extend his contract, it was unclear if they would activate it.
According to the Edinburgh Evening News, the 27-year-old has now agreed to a pre-contract move to Tynecastle in the summer. However, Hearts are eager to bring him in during the current window. Discussions are expected with Rotherham to negotiate an immediate transfer, although it remains uncertain if they will agree to a deal.
For now, McCart is set to remain with Rotherham for their upcoming match against Huddersfield, but Hearts are hopeful of securing his services shortly thereafter.
Immediate Action Required
Hearts must prioritize signing McCart this month to address their defensive issues. With Craig Halkett, Kye Rowles, and Daniel Oyegoke as their current centre-back options – the latter also covering at right-back – the squad is stretched thin.
Delaying McCart’s arrival until the summer would leave Hearts vulnerable in a critical period, especially with uncertainty surrounding Rowles’ future. Ideally, the Jambos need three defensive reinforcements, and while short-term loans might offer a temporary solution, they would be far from ideal.
Securing McCart now is crucial as Hearts navigate a challenging fight to stabilize their season.
