Kyziridis, Chesnokov and Kabangu poised for Hearts switch as McInnes reshapes squad
Hearts are on the verge of completing deals for Alexandros Kyziridis and Islam Chesnokov, with a permanent move for Elton Kabangu also close, as the club prepares for a new era under recently appointed head coach Derek McInnes.
Talks are in the final stages with both Kyziridis and Chesnokov, and Tynecastle officials are optimistic about securing both signings soon. Greek winger Kyziridis, who is set to leave Slovakian side Zemplín Michalovce when his contract ends this summer, has already visited Edinburgh. The 24-year-old is a versatile attacker capable of playing across the front line, and Hearts moved early to express their interest.
Kazakhstan international Chesnokov, currently with Tobol Kostanay, is being lined up on a pre-contract deal. Hearts are trying to fast-track the transfer to avoid registration issues that would prevent the player from joining until January if he only arrives after his current deal expires in October.
Meanwhile, Belgian forward Kabangu is expected to make his loan switch from Union Saint-Gilloise permanent. Hearts are preparing to pay around £250,000 to complete the transfer, with Kabangu set to sign a three-year contract. The striker has impressed since arriving in January on a deal that included a purchase option.
The club have already secured Norwegian right-back Christian Borchgrevink on a pre-contract agreement for the 2025/26 campaign. He is due to report to Riccarton for pre-season next month.
Further changes to the squad are expected as McInnes evaluates his options, with some departures likely. Winger Barrie McKay and midfielder Jorge Grant will leave at the end of the season, while new contract offers have been made to veteran goalkeeper Craig Gordon and club captain Lawrence Shankland.
Chief executive Andrew McKinlay addressed the club’s ongoing transfer activity in an interview with the Edinburgh News, acknowledging that a large squad may need to be trimmed.
“We’re close to confirming a couple of signings,” McKinlay said. “It’s always a bit risky bringing players in before others move out, but we’re happy with how things are progressing. We hope to make announcements soon, especially regarding Kyziridis and Chesnokov—Derek values wide players, and they fit that profile.”
On Kabangu’s deal, McKinlay added: “That’s slightly different because there’s already an option. We’re confident that can be finalised shortly.”
Hearts also plan to strengthen in midfield and continue to assess potential additions, with McInnes actively involved in shaping the squad for the upcoming season.
