Exclusive: Pierre Landry Kabore Preparing for a Hearts Debut Against Aberdeen – Transfer Latest from Riccarton
Heart of Midlothian supporters could be set to catch their first glimpse of new signing Pierre Landry Kabore this weekend as the 22-year-old midfielder edges closer to making his debut against Aberdeen in the Scottish Premiership. Sources close to Riccarton have confirmed that Kabore, who arrived from French Ligue 2 side Stade Lavallois earlier this month, has impressed coaching staff during training sessions and is being primed for involvement in the squad travelling to Pittodrie.
Kabore, a Burkina Faso international with five senior caps, joined Hearts on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee believed to be in the region of £750,000. The deal was finalised in the closing stages of the January transfer window as manager Steven Naismith sought to strengthen midfield options following the departure of Jorge Grant to Oxford United.
Adapting Quickly to Scottish Football
Although Kabore has only been in Edinburgh for a matter of weeks, insiders at Riccarton report that his adaptation has been seamless. The midfielder is described as “dynamic, physical, and technically astute,” attributes which Hearts hope will inject fresh energy into their engine room during the crucial run-in.
“Pierre has been excellent since he arrived,” a club source revealed. “He’s fitted into training straight away, communicates well, and understands what the manager wants. The plan is to integrate him carefully, but there’s every chance he could feature against Aberdeen either from the start or off the bench.”
A Timely Boost Ahead of a Key Fixture
Hearts face Aberdeen in a pivotal clash as both sides chase European qualification. The Jambos currently sit third, but a win at Pittodrie would strengthen their grip on a potential Europa League spot. With injuries to key midfielders Beni Baningime and Calem Nieuwenhof, Kabore’s availability offers Naismith a timely boost.
The former Stade Lavallois star is known for his box-to-box qualities and defensive discipline – traits that could prove invaluable against Barry Robson’s physical Aberdeen side.
Transfer Strategy at Riccarton
Kabore’s signing reflects Hearts’ continued strategy of identifying emerging talent from European markets rather than focusing solely on domestic options. Sporting director Joe Savage has previously outlined the club’s ambition to blend Scottish core players with overseas recruits capable of delivering immediate impact.
“Kabore fits the profile we’ve been looking for,” Savage said during the unveiling. “He’s young, hungry, and has the potential to develop further in the Scottish Premiership.”
Supporters’ Excitement Builds
Fans have expressed growing anticipation on social media, eager to see what the Burkinabé midfielder can bring to Tynecastle. Should Kabore debut against Aberdeen, it would mark a significant step in Hearts’ mid-season rebuild as they aim to cement European football for a second successive campaign.
