Salazar signing brings ‘healthy’ competition to Hearts

Hearts have confirmed the loan signing of left-back Andres Salazar from Colombian combine Atletico Nacional subject to international clearance.

The move also requires Scottish Football Association approval but Hearts are delighted with the capture of the 21-year-old who is claimed to be one of the rising stars in Columbia.

Salazar made his Nacional debut last year and helped the club make the final of the Toreno Apertura. They lost on penalties.

Then, Salazar played four matches in the South American equivalent of the Champions League.

The defender played for his country at under-20 level and made his full international debut in a 1-0 win over Iraq.

Steven Naismith told Hearts official website: “A lot of hard work has gone into making this deal possible. In Andres, we are getting a quality player with loads of experience, despite his young age.

“His talent means there will be healthy competition amongst the squad for a place in the starting line-up.”

PICTURE: Steven Naismith speaks to the media at Riccarton. Picture Nigel Duncan