Ikpeazu signs on as Levein boosts his attacking options for the new season

● Cambridge striker agrees two-year deal with Gorgie side on a pre-contract

Hearts have confirmed the signing of striker Uche Ikpeazu on a pre-contract deal.

The Cambridge United forward has signed a two-year deal after previously rejecting a new Cambridge contract and will join up with Hearts in July.

Ikpeazu, 23, has impressed in Sky Bet League Two this season with 13 goals and is Craig Levein’s second signing ahead of the new season.

It was announced this week that experienced St Johnstone striker Steven Maclean would also be joining, while Ikpeazu adds further strength to the attacking options after Isma Goncalves and Cole Stockton left in January.

The futures of Kyle Lafferty and Steven Naismith remain uncertain, with the Northern Irish striker linked with a move away in the previous window, while Naismith’s loan deal expires in the summer.

Speaking to Heartstv, Ikpeazu said: “It’s good to get it wrapped up and done, and I’m looking forward to being a Hearts player next season.

“Playing football in England, I didn’t know much about Scottish football to be honest. But I did know that Hearts is a big club. When I came to the stadium and I saw it for myself, it was crazy. I’m sure they get loads of fans… 18,000 every game… that’s some big attendances 0 Uche Ikpeazu: He scored 13 goals in England’s League Two. and I’m looking forward to playing in front of them.

“That’s what attracted me, and having a manager in Craig who really wanted to work with me, I feel that’s the most important thing to feel wanted, and that’s the way I felt.”

Levein, meanwhile, has express his satisfaction with the signing of Maclean.

“I’ve always really liked Steven and I think he’s a fantastic player,” the Hearts manager told the Evening News. “He has kept himself in good condition and he’s a really good guy. He’s got a wee bit about him. There’s a wee bit of devilment about him. I just think that, for the next year or two, he could help us. Not by playing every week, but as somebody who is kind of a safe bet.”