SNS GroupHearts have confirmed the signing of Michael Steinwender from Swedish side Varnamo.
The Austrian defender joins the Tynecastle club as a replacement for Kye Rowles following his move to the MLS.
The centre-back has made 20 appearances for the Allsvenskan club since signing for them from Hartberg in the summer.
Neil Critchley has now signed the 24-year-old on a contract until 2028 to bolster his defensive options.
Speaking to the Official Hearts Website, Neil said; “We’re really delighted to get this deal for Michael completed as it’s taken a lot of hard work from everyone at the club these past few months to bring him to Hearts.
“He is someone we have identified that we believe has all the attributes to be a success in the Scottish Premiership and in Europe. He already has several seasons of experience in Austria and Sweden and at the age of 24 he has the potential to develop further in his career.
“We are pleased with the work we have done so far to strengthen the squad in January and we are all looking forward to working with Michal in the future.”
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