Hearts sign free agent Barrie McKay on two-year deal

Hearts have announced the signing of former Rangers winger Barrie McKay on a two-year contract.

McKay was available as a free agent after leaving Swansea City and available to sign outside the transfer window.

The 26-year-old says he can’t wait to get started with his new club and will be available for the Edinburgh derby this weekend, assuming international clearance is received.

“Hearts is the right club for me because of the size of the club, the way that they want to play and I’ve played here before,” McKay told Hearts TV.

“The fans are brilliant. They’re on your back if you’re on the opposition team but they get right behind their players.

“The fans will get behind you instead of getting on to you. It’ll definitely be a different experience but it’s one that I’m looking forward to.

“The manager and the way the club wants to go is a project that I want to be a part of.”

Hearts head coach Robbie Neilson believes McKay has the ideal attributes to be a success at Tynecastle.

“I’m delighted that we’ve managed to get Barrie in and signed,” he said.

“I’m sure a lot of people will remember his qualities from his previous spell in Scottish football; quick, direct, dynamic and capable of moments of magic.

“To bring those talents to Hearts, where we now have considerable depth in our attacking options, is a real boost and I’m really looking forward to working with Barrie.”

Hearts sporting director Joe Savage was delighted to beat rivals to the player’s signature and believes the club have put together a squad to challenge at the top end of the table. He said: “We beat off interest from near, in fact very near, and afar to get Barrie’s signature and we’re very happy to have done so.

“Barrie is an exciting player and one I am sure will light up Tynecastle when he takes to the pitch.”