Hearts are reportedly preparing a "final push" as they look to install former Barnsley boss Daniel Stendel as their new manager.
The Jambos, who are currently 10th in the Scottish Premiership and only above St Mirren and St Johnstone on goal difference, have been without a permanent boss since Craig Levein's departure at the end of October.
Stendel, 45, is thought to be chairwoman Ann Budge's first choice for the role and the Edinburgh Evening News reports that the club are confident of finalising terms in the coming days.
The German is believed to have visited the club's stadium and training ground before their 5-0 thrashing by Rangers at the weekend.
The former Hannover manager, who was sacked by Barnsley in October, won 47% of his games as manager of the Yorkshire club, guiding them to promotion from League One last season.
