Hearts transfer latest as Sibbick and Atkinson interest registered while Alex Cochrane exit timeline revealed

Steven Naismith admits Toby Sibbick and Nathaniel Atkinson could be following Alex Cochrane out of Tynecastle.

Full-back Cochrane is on the verge of a move to Birmingham City after Hearts accepted a £1.3million bid from the English League One side. And defenders Sibbick and Atkinson could also be on their way after Naismith revealed there are clubs who have registered interest in the duo. The Gorgie gaffer said: “There have been a couple of conversations had with them. Nothing to give you any more information on but I would expect there to be movement at some point over the course of the weeks coming up.”

Hearts are set to bank a cool fee for Cochrane but Naismith insists the dosh won’t alter his summer shopping plans. But the development of the defender will show a path for other potential recruits that Hearts is a solid step on their career ladder. The boss said: “I presume he is speaking to them, medical and legal side of things will happen over the next few days. I don't expect there to be any change to it.

“All round it's a football business decision that makes sense. Every club in Scotland is in that bracket if someone comes in for your players it needs to be considered. I think it is a good model. Us as a club haven't been good enough at it in previous years.

"Alex was someone who was identified come in, he improved, he improved Hearts and this is the outcome of that. It is a good deal for everyone. I don't actually think this transfer makes a big difference to that (summer plans).

“The conversations I've had with the club has been that if we identify a player we think is the right one and we think is a good prospect and one that can be developed and progressed then the club say they will back that and go for