Hearts in Spain: Alex Cochrane reveals talks with English Championship clubs and why he chose Tynecastle

His future is finalised after signing a three-year contract and his value to the Edinburgh club emphasised by the moderate six-figure fee paid to Brighton and Hove Albion. The 22-year-old showed enough during last season’s loan to suggest he is worth the money.

Feeling wanted and settled helps any footballer at any club. A Love Island-style unveiling on social media preceded Cochrane’s initiation singing challenge from the Hearts squad. After a rendition of Bob Marley’s Three Little Birds, it was like he’d never been away.

Brighton extended his contract earlier this month but the player knew they were simply protecting their investment and that his career would continue elsewhere. “I always knew Hearts were interested,” he explained.

“I had a conversation with the gaffer at the tail end of last season and he said the club wanted to sign me. I had a bit of time to myself on holiday, came back and talks were happening and an offer got put in.

“For me it was a quick decision. It was a no-brainer to come back here and build on what we did last season. We're in Europe as well, which is going to be a hard test but a great experience against teams capable of doing great things. We'll be pushing in the league and cup again and going for it. It was an opportunity I couldn't turn down.

“I spoke to Brighton at the back end of the season. There was a contract I had to sign, but I spoke to [technical director] David Weir and he said if the right move came along, I could leave. I'm thankful for what they've done for me over the last couple of years and I wish them all the best.”

Tynecastle wasn't the only option. Talks took place with English Championship teams as Queens Park Rangers and Coventry City both made advances for the