Recently departed Aston Villa midfielder Glenn Whelan has been offered a one-year deal by Hearts, according to the Daily Record.
The Irishman left the Villains at the end of last season, following their promotion to the Premier League. The 35-year-old played 35 times in the league campaign, an impressive feat given the quality Villa had in the area.
Now Craig Levein is reportedly looking to make him a Jambo. The veteran midfielder would be a brilliant addition for the Tynecastle side.
Whelan would bring experience and class to the Hearts midfield
Whelan’s played 276 Premiership games in his career, and a further 189 in the Championship.
You don’t achieve that if you’re a poor player. Add in the 85 appearances he’s made for his country also and it’s fair to say Whelan would be coming to Gorgie with plenty of experience.
Hearts have many young midfielders at the club. Whelan could act like a mentor for them. The Irish international could really help an Andy Irving or a Harry Cochrane.
They’d look to the 35-year-old for guidance, whilst also learning some of Whelan’s trademark qualities.
Last season at Villa proved that Whelan’s still got the ability to play at a high level. He’s a strong tackler who loves the dirty side of the game. When he wins possession back for his team, Whelan isn’t too bad at finding a pass either.
With Peter Haring missing from the midfield for an indefinite amount of time, Whelan would be a great person to have around the club for at least a season.
He’d be able to fill in the gap Haring has left effectively, plus he’d provide a role model-like figure for young Jambos to look up to.
If Levein can get this over the line it would be a brilliant signing for the Jambos.