HEARTS AND HIBS IN HUNT FOR COUNTY STAR BOYCE
HEARTS and Hibs are ready to battle it out to sign Ross County striker Liam Boyce in the summer.
The 26-year-old striker – who has one year left on his contract – has caught the attention of several clubs after netting 15 league goals for County this term.
Boyce has been the standout performer for relegation-threatened Staggies this season but Jim McIntyre’s men know it will be tough to keep hold of their star turn.
Record Sport can reveal Hearts and Hibs are among those clubs interested in snapping up the Northern Ireland ace.
But the Edinburgh rivals will face competition from a host of English clubs in the Championship and League One for Boyce’s signature.
Neil Lennon believes he could be the proven performer he needs to make a big impact when Hibs return to the Premiership next season.
While Hearts see Boyce as the striker who can inject inspiration and quality into Ian Cathro’s team.
Jambos No.2 and Northern Ireland coach Austin MacPhee has been impressed by him while working in the international set-up.
Aberdeen were keen on Boyce in the past and may consider a move should some of their top stars leave at the end of the season.
It is a major worry for eighth-placed County, who have relied on his goals for the past two seasons.
Boyce only trails Celtic’s Scott Sinclair (20) and Moussa Dembele (17) in the scoring charts this term.
And the Staggies will be looking for him to produce another big performance against the Hoops tomorrow.
EXCLUSIVE