Hearts have secured midfielder Marc Leonard on loan from Birmingham City until season's end. The 24-year-old Scotland Under-21 international, a former Hearts youth player, brings 17 Championship appearances this term. He could debut in Sunday's crucial Scottish Premiership clash with Celtic.

Leonard's arrival addresses a pressing midfield shortage. Hearts are without suspended Beni Baningime and injured Cammy Devlin, who is out for up to two months. Manager Derek McInnes values Leonard's prior knowledge of the club and Scottish football, seeing it as key for a squad chasing the league title.

This move follows a rejected bid for Forest Green Rovers' Laurent Mendy. Leonard's career includes two spells at Northampton and limited starts since Birmingham's promotion. His addition provides immediate depth for a high-stakes fixture, offering a familiar option as Hearts pursue silverware and European qualification.