Hearts ‘win race’ for Livingston star Alan Forrest

HEARTS are set to win the race to sign Alan Forrest from Livingston, according to a report.

The winger is out-of-contract at the Almondvale Stadium this summer.

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And after rejecting a switch to St Johnstone, the Jambos will swoop in and get their man.

SunSport reported back in April that Hearts were set to join the transfer chase for the Livi wideman.

And Forrest has now rejected a move to Dundee United with other clubs also interested in his signature.

But it's Robbie Neilson's side who has come out on top as he prepares to revamp his side for their European push next season.

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The Jambos have guaranteed European group stage football next season after taking third place in the Premiership and reaching the final of the Scottish Cup.

They will enter the Europa League play-off with just two ties between themselves and a place in UEFA's second most prestigious competition.

But a defeat in the two legs will mean they will drop down to the Conference League group stage instead, meaning they will have European football until Christmas at the very least.

Now Hearts have started their recruitment for their crucial season and Forrest will join Neilson's men for their first season in a European group since 2004, according to the Daily Record.

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Forrest has impressed since making the jump to the top flight following his switch to Livingston from Ayr United.

Younger brother of James, Alan has been an important member of Davie Martindale's team as the Lions missed the top-six on the final day of the season before the split.

Forrest netted six times in the Premiership last season, grabbing four assists also.

Meanwhile, Ukraine captain Oleksandr Zinchenko broke down in tears while discussing the war in his home country ahead of their World Cup play-off tie against Scotland.

The horrific events off the pitch led Zinchenko to understandably tear up during the pre-match press conference on Tuesday.

Keep up to date with ALL the latest news and transfers at the Scottish Sun football page