Andres Salazar close to Hearts transfer but Steven Naismith faces wait for Colombian international

Andres Salazar is nearing a move to Hearts, but will need to cut through the red tape before he's available to make his Jambos debut.

The 21-year-old is set to jet into Edinburgh from South America to pen a season-long loan deal with an option to buy from Atletico Nacional. However, the usual procedure to obtain a visa and work permit must be followed, so he won't be registered in time for Saturday's Premiership opener against Rangers on Saturday lunchtime.

Salazar has been identified as a replacement for Alex Cochrane, who joined Birmingham City last month. James Penrice was signed as vocer in the left wing back position and Stephen Kingsley can also operate there, but has been used more at left centre back so Salazar will likely compete with Penrice for a spot in Steven Naismith's XI. Salazar has one cap for mis country, making his international debut last June.

Record Sport understands a deal for Malachi Boateng is closer to completion. Naismith was hopeful of the deal being concluded this week, but that now looks more likely to go through on Friday.

The former Dundee loan star does have a chance of facing Rangers. But that will depend on clearance being received in time after he confirms his switch from Crystal Palace.