Heart of Midlothian officials interviewed Belgian coach Maarten Martens last week as the club intensifies its search to fill the vacant managerial position.
The 41-year-old former AZ Alkmaar manager has emerged as a strong candidate to succeed Derek McInnes, who recently departed for Rangers.
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Appointment Expected This Week
The Tynecastle hierarchy, led by sporting director Graeme Jones and chairman Calum Paterson, aims to finalize the appointment this week.
The first-team squad is scheduled to fly out for a week-long training camp in Spain next Monday.
Martens became available after being dismissed by Dutch club AZ Alkmaar in January.
During his two-year tenure, he secured a fourth-place Eredivisie finish and maintained a 51 percent win ratio.
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The former Belgian international utilizes 4-3-3 and 4-2-3-1 systems with an emphasis on defensive solidity and quick transitions.
He is reportedly eager to guide Hearts into next month's Champions League qualifiers against Sturm Graz.
Alongside Martens, Dutchman René Hake was also interviewed by the board last week.
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The club's recruitment partner, Jamestown Analytics, recommended both candidates to help Hearts continue challenging at the top of Scottish football.
