Hearts secured their fifth signing of the January transfer window early this evening in the shape of Harry Milne.
The Jambos have been chuffed with their business already in the winter window with Jamie McCart and Elton Kabangu having big impacts on the first team, and Michael Steinwender and Sander Kartum still to be integrated.
Milne was buzzing to have ended up at Hearts after spending his entire career to date in the lower leagues with Cove Rangers and Partick Thistle.
It also emerged earlier there could be a departure with Plymouth Argyle showing an interest in midfielder Malachi Boateng.
The former Dundee loanee was originally a regular after Critchley’s appointment but more recently has been on the bench with Beni Baningime and Cammy Devlin performing well in the middle of the park.
Calem Nieuwenhof’s return from injury means the centre of midfield is well covered and Hearts could afford to cash in – and there has now been an announcement.
Plymouth sign Malachi Boateng from Hearts
Plymouth have confirmed the signing of Hearts midfielder Malachi Boateng, which had earlier been reported as a possibility as either a permanent or loan.
It is the former with Argyle confirming a three-and-a-half year contract has been signed with the Jambos getting an undisclosed fee.
Manager Miron Muslic said: “Malachi provides further strength in depth to the squad but also fits the profile of player we are trying to sign perfectly.
“He is tall, athletic and physical and complements the style of play I am trying to implement here at Argyle.
“I want to welcome him to the club and look forward to him joining up with the squad.”
Argyle Head of Recruitment Jimmy Dickinson added: “Malachi is a ball winning defensive midfielder who will bolster Miron’s options.
“He adds athleticism and is also young and has loads of potential to develop and grow, and we believe he can do that under Miron’s leadership here at Argyle.”
Hearts thank Boateng
Hearts also announced the deal on their own website, thanking the player for his services after making 28 appearances.
Hearts boss Neil Critchley said: “We’ve enjoyed working with Mal these past few months.
“Similar to Daniel Oyegoke before him, this is a move that makes sense for all parties involved. Mal has an opportunity to continue his career down south and it’s a good deal for us, so we wish him well at Plymouth.
“We are happy with the work we have done during January as we now look forward to the next phase of the season in good form.”