Hearts transfer state of play as Steinwender teased, Chisnokov update emerges and Craig Gordon future hint dropped

Neil Critchley insists Zander Clark’s new contract will NOT affect any decision on Craig Gordon’s future at Hearts.

Clark signed a new two-year deal at Tynecastle on Wednesday. And with veteran Gordon out of contract in the summer there are question marks over whether the 42-year-old will also be handed an extension to his storied Gorgie playing career. Gordon has been first choice since August and has rolled back the years to grab back his position as Scotland number one. But Critchley said: "No, Zander's situation doesn't affect Craig. Craig's separate.

“We've just got good competition in that area of the pitch. Zander being here helps to push Craig and vice versa. We have Ryan Fulton, who's a fantastic goalkeeper as well. We're really fortunate with the goalkeepers we've got. Craig's a separate situation, so what happens with Zander doesn't affect Craig moving forward.

"It wasn't too difficult (to convince Clark to stay). I've had some good conversations with Zander since I've been here. I've been nothing but impressed with him as a person, as a goalkeeper.

“It's not been easy for him because I know, obviously, I'm aware of how he played and what he achieved last season. But he's taken it like a really good professional, a good man. He's a brilliant guy to have around, so positive. I'm delighted that he stayed and I see him as part of the future at Hearts.”

Meanwhile the manager was tight-lipped on transfer business as he closes in on signing number three of the January window. Defender Michael Steinwender is expected in Edinburgh over the weekend to undergo a medical before completing a move from Swedish side Vernamo. Critchley said: “I'm not going to confirm any names. He's someone we know. He's someone that we're