Sources: Hearts agree to sign Ginnelly after Preston exit
Hearts have agreed a deal to sign Josh Ginnelly on a free transfer following his Preston North End exit, Football Insider can reveal.
The midfielder spent the 2020-21 season on loan at the Scottish club but his spell was blighted by injuries.
But a source has told Football Insider Ginnelly has done enough to secure a permanent move to Tynecastle as they prepare for life back in the Scottish Premiership.
He has agreed a contract ahead of his deal at North End expiring at the end of June.
The 24-year-old managed just 10 appearances for the Jam Tarts but still found the net four times and provided two assists.
That includes the equalising goal and assist in last season's Scottish Cup final against Celtic that was played in December.
Ginnelly scored in the 111th minute to take the game to penalties but Celtic eventually won 7-6 on penalties.
The Coventry-born ace moved to Preston in January 2019 but failed to make a mark at Deepdale.
He was limited to just nine appearances for the Lilywhites and never started a Championship game.
Despite being without Ginnelly for the majority of the campaign, Hearts won the Scottish Championship at a canter.
They ended the season 12 points clear of second-place Dundee.
However, they were dumped out of the Scottish Cup by Highland League club Brora Rangers which led to fan protests calling for Robbie Neilson to be sacked.