SPL Heart Of Midlothian 'One Step Closer' To Buyout With Supporters Group

A change of ownership at Scottish Premier League Heart of Midlothian is "one step closer" following talks between club Dir Sergejus Fedotovas and several supporters’ groups, according to Barry Anderson of the SCOTSMAN. All parties are "close to identifying a model" for fan ownership, although "no offer has yet been made" for the majority shareholding in the club held by Ukio Bankas Investment Group. Supporters Direct is "helping broker the talks," which involve the Hearts Shareholders Association, the Federation of Hearts Supporters Clubs, the Hearts Supporters Trust, the Hearts Youth Development Committee, the Fans Forum and Foundation of Hearts. It is hoped that Hearts could have new owners by the start of next season, although those involved are "reluctant to put a definite time scale in place at this stage" (SCOTSMAN, 3/18).