Hearts and Aberdeen braced for transfer tussle as Premiership rivals eye Iraq winger.

The two teams have a winger who is impressing in Norway on their radar, and they could compete for the star.

Hearts are interested in Stromsgodset winger Marko Farji, who is also wanted by Scottish Premiership rivals Aberdeen. Under new manager Derek McInnes, the Jambos are trying to enhance their attacking options, and Record Sport stated they were interested in Claudio Braga. Islam Chesnokov is another player who appears to be on his way to Gorgie. Farji has played 11 games for his team this season, and despite their problems (14th in the Norwegian Eliteserien with only two wins from nine), the playmaker has seven goals and three assists in all competitions.

Fellow target Braga also plays in Norway’s second tier with Aaelsund, indicating that the recruitment staff is eager to expand into new territories. Farji, who has twice represented Iraq, is under contract with Stromsgodset until 2026, and a six-figure price would certainly be sufficient to complete a move. Record Sport understands that any move could be contingent on other transfer options on the Hearts’ shortlist. The creative talent is versatile, and while he is most commonly used as a left winger, he can also play in attacking midfield or on the right side. Despite Tynecastle’s interest in Daniel Arzani, his future remains uncertain, the Australian has suitors in Asia and across Europe so Farji could be an alternative to the ex-Celtic man.

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