HEARTS are moving closer to signing Kazakhstan star Islam Chesnokov after Astana admitted defeat in their quest to sign the player.
The Tynecastle side have targeted the 25-year-old winger for months and failed in an attempt to land him in the January transfer window after being unable to agree a fee with his club, FC Tobol, who accused the Tynecastle side of putting in a derisory offer.
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They faced competition from Portuguese side Boavista, managed by Scottish boss Stuart Baxter and the Kazakhstan outfit Astana.
But Astana have resigned themselves to losing out on Chesnokov because they claim he has his heart set on a move to Edinburgh.
Astana sports director Kaisar Bekenov said: “We were very interested in Islam.
“But everyone knows that he wants to go to Scotland.
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“The information I have received is that he is very close to a move to Hearts.”
Chesnokov has scored 20 goals over the past two seasons for his club and seems set to join the Derek McInnes revolution for next season.
We told you yesterday the Kilmarnock boss WON’T be in the dugout for this weekend’s clash with Hearts as his move to to Tynecastle edges closer.
Chris Burke and Craig Clark will be in charge of team affairs – with Paul Sheerin and Alan Archibald both also stepping out.
Killie said in a statement: “It has been agreed between our Board of Directors, Derek McInnes and his staff that the best approach would be if they were not in charge for the final match of the season.
“Paul Sheerin and Alan Archibald will also not be involved – first team preparation and matchday duties will be undertaken by Chris Burke and Craig Clark.
“We look forward to seeing the blue and white army out in force this weekend as we give the players the send off they deserve.”
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