Hearts of Midlothian boss Steven Naismith anticipates that Alex Cochrane will complete a transfer to Birmingham City in the upcoming days.

The 24-year-old left-back joined Hearts on a permanent contract from Brighton two years ago after a successful loan stint, and is now poised to depart for an estimated fee of around £1.3 million.

When questioned about the deal prior to Wednesday night's Tynecastle friendly match against Tottenham Hotspur, Naismith commented on the situation and explained how the defender's exit makes sense.

“It’s in the works," said Naismith. "He is speaking to them and I presume the medical and the legal side of things will happen over the next few days.

“All round it’s a football business decision that makes sense. I think every club in Scotland are in that bracket of, if good offers come in for your players then they need to be considered.


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“I think it’s a good model. Us as a club haven’t been good enough at it in previous years but Alex was someone who was identified, he came in, he improved, he improved Hearts, and this is the outcome of that. It’s a good deal for everyone.”

Naismith went on to confirm that there had been a “couple of conversations” about the futures of Nathaniel Atkinson and Toby Sibbick, who appear to be surplus to requirements in Gorgie.

“I would expect there to be movement at some point over the course of the weeks coming up,” he added.