York City confirmed it has accepted a seven‑figure bid from Hearts for defender Malachi Fagan‑Walcott. The 24‑year‑old centre‑half has yet to agree personal terms, but a deal would eclipse the club’s 1999 record of £950,000 paid to Sheffield Wednesday for Richard Cresswell. Fagan‑Walcott’s move could reshape York’s defensive core.

Since joining York on loan in 2024, Fagan‑Walcott has appeared in 37 matches and netted eight goals, a striking return for a centre‑half. The transfer would lift the club into the spotlight and provide a financial boost that could fund new signings or infrastructure upgrades, tightening the squad for a push in the National League.

Hearts have also released Frankie Kent and Lewis Neilson, while centre‑back Craig Halkett faces up to nine months out with a ruptured Achilles and torn calf. Meanwhile, Lincoln City defender MJ Kamson‑Kamara and others have already agreed moves to Edinburgh, signalling a broader reshuffle in the Scottish Premiership.

York City’s board praised the club’s academy and the fans for their support during the transfer window. The sale will also free up wage space, allowing the manager to recruit a higher‑profile striker to complement the team’s attacking output. The move underscores York’s ambition to return to the Football League.