Manager Derek McInnes says Hearts are in talks with St Johnstone winger Josh McPake about a move next summer.
The Scottish Championship’s top scorer, who scored twice in Friday’s win over Ayr United, has 13 goals so far this season in all competitions.
The 24-year-old came through the Rangers academy and joined St Johnstone in July 2024 after a spell in League 1 with Stirling Albion.
“I don’t know if it’s all agreed or where it’s at,” McInnes told BBC Scotland after his side’s 2-0 win over Falkirk.
“But it’s a player who is of interest to us. We’ve been in touch with St Johnstone to notify them.
“It’s something we expect to get done. But I can’t really comment until that is factual.”
McPake is out of contract at the end of the season and is free to sign a deal for next season when the January transfer window opens.
It is not clear whether Hearts are seeking to expedite the move to next month.
McPake had six loan spells while at Rangers before dropping down to the third tier, after which Craig Levein brought him to McDiarmid Park.
He managed one goal in 16 appearances last season as St Johnstone were relegated, but has found form in the second tier.
His 12 league goals have helped fire Saints three points clear at the top of the Championsip after 18 games.