Heart of Midlothian have announced the signing of Dutch right back Jordi Altena on a 3-year contract from RKC Waalwijk for an undisclosed fee, subject to SFA approval.

The defender has played 21 matches so far this season, scoring twice and making 4 assists.

Speaking to media today Derek McInnes said “The staff, we all liked what we saw from Jordi.

“He’s somebody who’s got a lot of attacking threats from that full-back position and we were delighted to get him”

Hearts have a second player due to sign at beginning of January in Islam Chesnokov. The Kazakhstan international has been a highly anticipated signing for the Gorgie side.

He originally agreed terms with the Jambos at the beginning of the season but has had some set backs with clearance.

McInnes says “Islam will fly in on Friday, ahead of the game. He’ll be at Tynecastle on Saturday”

”It is probably going to be two or three days before we can get him registered. That part of it we can control.”

“Looking forward to eventually getting him here, I think he is probably the player that I’ve spoken most about in my career as a manager, and haven’t got to meet him yet.”

The league leaders have been linked to a further two signings already ahead of the January transfer window, but no official statements have been made.

Hearts will face Livingston this weekend at Tynecastle and may have the option of a new face within the team if approval is granted.