Manchester United kid Mitchell set for Hearts return
CRAIG LEVEIN has revealed that Hearts are close to re-signing full-back Demetri Mitchell on a loandeal from Manchester United.
The 21-year-old featured 11 times for the Jambos last season after joining in January and made a positive impression in what was a disappointing campaign.
Levein’s side have made a better start to this season after a summer of upheaval in the playing staff, and the defence that has kept three consecutive clean sheets is set to be further bolstered by the arrival of Mitchell.
“We’re nearly over the line with Demi,” Levein said after his side beat Kilmarnock on Saturday. “We need another centre-back although I thought the two young boys at the back were excellent.
“Jimmy [Dunne] was a real tonic on his debut but I still think we’re a bit light in that area with Aaron [Hughes] and Christophe [Berra] out.”
Gareth McAuley has been linked with a move to Tynecastle to provide further cover at the back, while striker Osman Sow has also been linked with a return, but Levein remained tight-lipped on the rumours, saying only that there were “still options available”.
Meanwhile, Kilmarnock boss Steve Clarke was left to rue the red card shown to Gary Dicker – that the club are expected to appeal – and claimed the decision cost his side “at least a point”.