Nicky Devlin in Hearts transfer chance as Jambos lead the chase to sign Livingston skipper

Hearts are leading the chase to land Livingston skipper Nicky Devlin in the summer.

The 29-year-old right back is available under freedom of contract and Record Sport understands he is high up the Jambos’ list of targets. But the Tynecastle side face serious competition from England where Ipswich Town, Reading, Wigan and Coventry City are all keen on tempting the former Walsall right back south of the border.

Dundee United, Hibs and Aberdeen are also understood to be monitoring the 29-year-old’s situation. But Hearts are at the front of the queue and have been long term admirers of Devlin. Robbie Neilson’s sacking last week hasn’t stopped Hearts planning for the summer window and with veteran right Michael Smith’s contract set to expire Devlin would be a straight replacement to vie with Nat Atkinson for the right back berth. Devlin is in his fourth season with Livi and has made 142 appearances for the West Lothian club.

But he has knocked back a new deal at the Tony Macaroni Arena with boss David Martindale admitting last month his departure was “inevitable” and that he’d be keen to help him find the right club.

Martindale said: “I’m more than happy to vouch for Nicky. I think he’d be a fantastic addition to a few teams up here but it may appeal to him to go back down the road.”