(Credit: Imago, Getty)

Pete O'Rourke, Transfer Correspondent

Thu 9 April 2026 7:00, UK

Follow us on Google Discover

Hearts are “confident” of being able to fend off any interest from Celtic and Rangers in their key stars this summer, sources have told Football Insider.

The Scottish Premiership leaders are currently on course to secure Champions League football for next term, and the financial boost that would come with that is set to strengthen their position even further.

The Edinburgh outfit have an ambitious project to compete at the top of Scottish football, and sources say that they are hopeful of keeping all of their key players intact this summer.

Celtic and Rangers are both being linked with some of the most impressive talents from across the Premiership, but Hearts are clear in their resolve.

Celtic’s transfer plans are set to see them try and overhaul their squad ahead of next season, but that will not come to the detriment of Hearts.

Hearts set huge Claudio Braga price tag

Football Insider revealed back in March that Hearts will demand in excess of £5million for Claudio Braga this summer, with the Portuguese already attracting interest from elsewhere.

Celtic have been heavily linked with a move for the striker, who has dazzled since his £400,000 move from Norwegian side Aalesund last summer.

However, Hearts are desperate to keep hold of the 26-year-old for another season at least, and have no plans to allow him to make the switch to Celtic Park.

They are aware that they need to retain their best players if they are to compete with the Old Firm long-term, and they see themselves as being well-placed to do that this summer.

Finishing inside the top two would give them a place in Champions League qualifying, and all the riches that could potentially come with it later down the line.

Celtic exploring Jon McCracken deal

Football Insider revealed earlier this week that Celtic are exploring the possibility of a move for Dundee FC goalkeeper Jon McCracken this summer.

That link is yet another example of the Old Firm duo trying to pick off a promising talent from elsewhere in the league, with McCracken potentially set to be available on a free transfer.

He is also attracting interest from a whole host of clubs in the English Championship, while even a potential stay at Dens Park isn’t off the table.

Celtic’s goalkeeping situation is set to be addressed as part of their rebuild, with reinforcements also needed across the board at Parkhead.