Hearts set sights on new striker

CSABA LASZLO revealed today that Hearts have mapped out their intentions for the January transfer window and will be looking to reinforce their forward line with a new striker.

The Evening News revealed yesterday that Mike Tullberg, the on-loan Danish forward, has suffered a setback in his attempts to overcome a torn thigh muscle, and this morning the club were awaiting scan results to determine whether Jamie Mole has broken a foot.

Laszlo has consulted Vladimir Romanov, Hearts' majority shareholder, and sport director Anatoli Korobochka to formulate plans to compensate for the lack of striking options.

He said he would also like to improve other areas of the team but, with Christian Nade his only in-form forward, will begin a recruitment drive when thetransfer window opens. Laszlo said: "We have a plan for January but it's too early to talk about it in detail.

"I always have a connection with Mr Romanov. I think we maybe have some problems in two or three positions but we must look at the striker position.

"We will look to the future, for young players who can benefit the team for many years.

"We have many good young players at the moment and they are slowly improving."

Laszlo also reiterated that Hearts will negotiate outgoing transfers as well as any incomings when the window re-opens in January.

"Maybe somebody would like to take players from us and, if a player wants to leave, business goes on," he continued.

"We would like to bring players and sell but we don't want to sell and damage the team."

Mole was taken to hospital yesterday after injuring his foot in training, and Hearts are hopeful that an X-ray does not reveal any fracture.

"Jamie took a blow to his foot so we will see what the scans say," continued Laszlo.

"We are obviously hoping there is nothing more than the bruising but he is sore so we will have to wait and see what the results of the x-rays are."

Meanwhile, Hearts reserves lost 1-0 to their St Mirren counterparts at Love Street yesterday.

Former Tynecastle striker Jim Hamilton scored the game's only goal.