Hearts’ 2025/26 Preparations in Full Swing
Preparations for the 2025/26 season are moving forward in Edinburgh, with key decisions looming — particularly regarding club captain Lawrence Shankland. Hearts boss Derek McInnes, currently on a family holiday, is set to speak with Shankland again today, marking his second conversation with the striker since taking over at Tynecastle last week. McInnes remains hopeful that these talks will lead to a positive resolution, as he aims to keep the influential forward at the club.
The new head coach is addressing multiple squad matters as he looks to build a stronger team for the upcoming campaign. While reinforcements in several positions are on the agenda, securing Shankland’s future remains a top priority. The 24-year-old Scotland international has netted 68 goals in 137 appearances since joining Hearts three years ago and remains a central figure in the squad.
McInnes wants to extend Shankland’s current deal, which is set to expire within days. A contract offer is already on the table. Speaking on the Scottish Football Social Club podcast, McInnes said:
“I’m due to speak with him again tomorrow. I’ve made it clear I want to work with Lawrence, but he also needs to see the benefits of staying. There are definite advantages to continuing at Hearts under the vision I have.”
However, the manager acknowledged the reality that Shankland, a proven goalscorer, is likely attracting interest from elsewhere:
“We’d be naive to think we’re the only option. We’ll do our best, but if a decision isn’t made soon, we need to move on — I have to look after Hearts, and Lawrence has to look after himself.”
While McInnes won’t impose a deadline, he emphasized the need for mutual respect, stating that the club can’t be left waiting indefinitely.
“I understand people resist deadlines, but there comes a point where we have to move forward. We’re just five weeks away from the League Cup — I need a strong squad in place before then.”
Recruitment and Analytics Driving Squad Overhaul
Elsewhere, the club’s recruitment push is gathering momentum, with the help of Jamestown Analytics guiding much of the scouting. Norwegian right-back Christian Borchgrevink and Greek winger Alexandros Kyziridis are expected to arrive for pre-season training, while Hearts are also finalizing a move for Kazakhstan international Islam Chesnokov.
McInnes highlighted the importance of collaboration with assistant coaches Paul Sheerin, Alan Archibald, and sporting director Graeme Jones. The use of data from Jamestown Analytics has allowed the team to focus their efforts on high-potential targets.
“I’m getting loads of agents contacting me, but now it’s Hearts who reach out to them. Through Jamestown, players are flagged, and then we follow up. It’s a more streamlined process.”
He praised the difference in recruitment approach at Hearts compared to his previous clubs, where he often had to rely on free agents or loans.
“It’s refreshing to look at players performing well at a high level, instead of just scanning the out-of-contract list.”
While McInnes acknowledged that risk is always present in signings, he believes the analytics-driven system reduces that significantly.
Position Focus and Transfer Targets
McInnes is targeting quick and physical wide players, a powerful striker, and a dominant midfielder.
“The squad I’m inheriting has talent, though it’s heavy in some areas. I’ve identified where we need improvements — more pace on the flanks, a central midfielder with presence, and a striker with mobility. These will help break down defensive teams at Tynecastle.”
While some of the player options have excited the new boss, others have already been ruled out.
“You always worry you’ll miss a gem, but Jamestown saves a lot of time by narrowing down quality options. Most aren’t perfect, but they’re close.”
Supporters Back Tony Bloom’s £10m Investment
Hearts fans overwhelmingly approved Tony Bloom’s £9.86 million investment deal, with 98.5% backing it via Foundation of Hearts. An EGM will soon finalize the agreement. McInnes is intrigued by what Bloom, the driving force behind Brighton’s rise and Union Saint-Gilloise’s recent Belgian title, can bring to the table.
“When the job became available, I saw a huge opportunity — not just because of the squad, but because of the backing from someone like Tony Bloom. He’s a proven operator in football.”
McInnes sees the added investment and infrastructure as a platform for future growth.
“You want to be part of a club with ambition and serious backing. Hearts already have a strong core and tradition. With the new investment, this could be the start of something big.”
The new head coach admitted he was desperate to land the job and now hopes to lead the club into a prosperous new era.
“I was absolutely desperate for this role. Everything about the club — the players, the fanbase, the facilities — excites me. Now, it’s about getting to work.”
