Former Town manager George Burley is expected to be named the new manager of Hearts by the end of the week. Burley met with Jambos owner Vladimir Romanov in Lithuania yesterday.
Hearts chief executive Phil Anderton says negotiations have gone smoothly: "We have held positive talks with George Burley and Mr Romanov met him yesterday. Their discussions went well.
"I have met George and my meetings with his representatives have also gone very well. We intend to make an announcement within the next couple of days.
"I won't take anything for granted until we have a signature but we are confident of appointing the right person."
Italian coach Nevio Scala remains in the running but Burley is now considered the firm favourite for the job.