Hearts in talks with St Johnstone star McPake

Manager Derek McInnes says Hearts are in talks with St Johnstone winger Josh McPake about a move next summer.

The Scottish Championship's top scorer, who scored twice in Friday's win over Ayr United, has 13 goals so far this season in all competitions.

The 24-year-old came through the Rangers academy and joined St Johnstone in July 2024 after a spell in League 1 with Stirling Albion.

"I don't know if it's all agreed or where it's at," McInnes told BBC Scotland after his side's 2-0 win over Falkirk.

"But it's a player who is of interest to us. We've been in touch with St Johnstone to notify them.

"It's something we expect to get done. But I can't really comment until that is factual."

McPake is out of contract at the end of the season and is free to sign a deal for next season when the January transfer window opens.

It is not clear whether Hearts are seeking to expedite the move to next month.

McPake had six loan spells while at Rangers before dropping down to the third tier, before Craig Levein brought him to McDiarmid Park.

He managed one goal in 16 appearances last season as St Johnstone were relegated, but has found form in the second tier.

His 12 league goals have helped fire Saints to the top of the Championsip.

Former Hearts striker Lee Miller on BBC Radio Scotland's Sportsound

He has had a bit of a rollercoaster career so far. But the penny has dropped and he has found a home at St Johnstone. It has allowed him to go and express himself and he has a manager who believes in him and he's reaping the benefits. It'll be a coup for Hearts to get him.

Former Hearts striker Ryan Stevenson on BBC Radio Scotland's Sportsound

If Jamestown are involved, then amazing, but I think Derek [McInnes] will be massively involved in this signing. Fans love seeing Scottish players coming through. Hopefully he can come in and go from strength to strength.