Hearts have completed the loan signing of Brighton defender Odel Offiah.
The 20-year-old, who made two English Premier League appearances last season, has joined the Tynecastle club for the remainder of the 2023/24 season.
After six years in the Brighton Academy, where he was a mainstay in their Under-18 Premier League and Premier League 2 side, he will continue his development under Frankie McAvoy and Steven Naismith in Scotland.
Hearts confirmed the deal on Friday just hours after their win over Rosenborg that secured a place in Europa Conference League playoff round.
McAvoy said: “It’s great to get Odel up here and the deal done.
“He’s a big, strong lad so I’ve no concerns about him being able to handle the physicality of Scottish football.
“But more importantly, he’s a good football player and one who will give us even more options in terms of squad depth.”
Technical director Steven Naismith added: “We’ve added some real quality to the squad over the past couple of weeks and Odel is another piece of that jigsaw.
“He’ll bring versatility to our defence which is a real plus point, and with the attributes he possesses I know he’ll excel in any position he’s asked to play.
“It’ll be a whirlwind start for him but he’s here, will train with the team over the next couple of days with a view to being involved in Sunday’s Viaplay Cup game against Partick Thistle.”
Follow STV News on WhatsApp
Scan the QR code on your mobile device for all the latest news from around the country
