'We've had a bid'- Hearts coach confirms Nigerian RB who spent four years at Arsenal nearing exit

Speaking after his side's 3-2 win against Kilmarnock on Saturday, Hearts manager Neil Critchley confirmed that Barnet-born Nigerian right-back Daniel Oyegoke is nearing a departure from the Jam Tarts.

Oyegoke was on the books of Arsenal for four years before joining Brentford, from where he moved to Hearts in the summer of 2024.

One of the first names on Hearts' matchday team sheet, he was not called up for the visit of Kilmarnock, fueling rumours that a transfer could be on the cards. 

The promising defender joined Hearts from Brentford on a three-year deal and has appeared in 26 games for the Edinburgh club this season.

Oyegoke is on the radar of several Italian clubs in the January transfer window, including Lecce who are working on completing the signing of the England youth international.

Explaining his decision to leave Oyegoke out of his squad, Neil Critchley told reporters: "We’ve had a bid from another club so they’re negotiating.

"It’s close to being finalised but not completed so we’ll see in the next 24 to 48 hours.”

Oyegoke departed Arsenal in 2021 after declining a new contract, subsequently joining Brentford's B team.

The fullback spent time on loan at Milton Keynes Dons and Bradford City during his spell at the Bees, making 37 appearances in the Football League.

A European U19 Championship winner with England in 2022, Oyegoke has also played for the Young Lions at U16, U17, U18 and U20 level. 

Ifeanyi Emmanuel 

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