Hearts midfielder Olly Lee is reportedly on the brink of leaving Tynecastle to return to English football with Southend United.
According to STV’s Jamie Borthwick, there is no deal agreed yet with manager Craig Levein wanting a deal that works for “all parties” before giving the move the green light.
Olly Lee in talks with Southend United. No deal agreed as yet, Hearts boss Craig Levein says it'll have to work for all parties before they let him leave @STVSport
— Jamie Borthwick (@jamiekborthwick) July 26, 2019
The 28-year-old made an impressive start at Tynecastle before injuries and a dip in form saw him in and out of the side after Christmas.
With the midfielder now seemingly surplus to requirements at Tynecastle – despite Levein admitting he wants to sign another midfielder – he looks set to head back south after a year in Gorgie.
Lee made 41 appearances in all competitions for Hearts last season, scoring six times and contributing 12 assists for the Jambos.
During his time in the Hearts side, Lee hit one of the best goals of last season with a stunning effort in the 1-0 win over Hibs at Easter Road in December.
(Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
After Ryan Edwards and Arnaud Djoum left Tynecastle already this summer, Levein’s midfield will have a very different look this season.
Peter Haring’s ongoing injur problems also leave the Jambos short in midfield but it seems that Levein has his sights set elsewhere ahead of the new season.