Former Sporting Lisbon manager Paulo Sergio will be appointed the new manager of Hearts, according to reports.

The 43-year-old, who was sacked following a 2-0 Europa League defeat to Rangers in February, could be officially unveiled as early as later today, Sky Sports News suggests.

Sergio is expected to fly into the country shortly and could take charge of Hearts’ Europa League third qualifying round second leg against Hungarian side Paks on Thursday night.

Sergio replaces Jim Jefferies, who was sacked by Vladimir Romanov but is said to be considering an offer to stay on as director of football.

Hearts have failed to win any of their last ten Scottish Premier League outings, with their most recent success coming in a 3-2 win over St Mirren in March.