Hearts complete loan signing of Brighton defender Odel Offiah

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.

𝙾𝚍𝚎𝚕. 𝙸𝚜. 𝙷𝚎𝚛𝚎. pic.twitter.com/ejbGJPwmvd
— Heart of Midlothian FC (@JamTarts) August 18, 2023

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.”