Hearts Step Up Managerial Search as Derek McInnes Emerges as Top Target
Hearts have officially approached Kilmarnock in an effort to appoint Derek McInnes as their new manager. The Tynecastle side are now in discussions with Rugby Park officials as they attempt to bring the 53-year-old to Edinburgh.
Although McInnes is under contract at Kilmarnock until 2027, the deal includes a release clause — reportedly a six-figure sum — that Hearts are prepared to activate. Edinburgh News first identified McInnes as the frontrunner last week, and now talks are expected to accelerate following Hearts’ formal move.
Following the dismissal of Neil Critchley last month, Liam Fox was named interim head coach while the club searched for a long-term solution. Hearts have prioritized appointing someone with proven Scottish football credentials, and McInnes — who has previously managed St Johnstone, Aberdeen, and Kilmarnock — fits the profile. Other candidates considered included Falkirk’s John McGlynn and St Mirren’s Stephen Robinson.
Negotiations are ongoing between the clubs, with details such as the timing of McInnes’ release and potential backroom staff additions still to be resolved. Hearts informed Kilmarnock over the weekend of their intention to make a formal approach.
McInnes, who is open to taking the role, is expected to enter talks soon after helping Kilmarnock secure top-flight safety with a weekend win over Dundee. Hearts believe his extensive experience could help restore their competitiveness in the Premiership.
Sporting director Graeme Jones has led the recruitment process, which followed the departure of Critchley and assistant Mike Garrity. Interim boss Fox has since overseen two crucial victories, including a 3-0 win against Motherwell on Saturday, to ensure Hearts’ Premiership status.
The board views McInnes as the ideal long-term option, particularly given his track record at Aberdeen — where he spent eight years and led the club to multiple top-four finishes and four cup finals, winning the League Cup in 2014. McInnes previously turned down high-profile offers from Rangers and Sunderland and was once linked to the Scotland job.
Since taking charge at Kilmarnock in January 2022, McInnes won promotion, guided them into European competition, and was named SFWA Manager of the Year after a fourth-place finish last season. The club currently sits ninth in the table.
