Hearts have opened official talks with Newcastle United to acquire Ian Cathro as their new head coach, Sky sources understand.
Cathro is assistant to Rafael Benitez, but started his coaching career at Dundee United under current Hearts director of football Craig Levein.
It is understood Cathro is the preferred target to replace Robbie Neilson, who left the club to join League One club Milton Keynes Dons last week.
Hearts are hoping to appoint Neilson's replacement as soon as possible, to allow as much time as possible to prepare for Saturday's game with Rangers at Ibrox.
Neilson left Hearts, along with his assistant Stevie Crawford, last week to take over from Karl Robinson at Milton Keynes.
Robinson left the role in November - he has since joined Charlton - and the Dons sit in a lowly 19th place as Neilson and Crawford arrive.
Last season, Neilson guided Hearts to third place in Scotland's top division and he leaves with them in second behind reigning champions Celtic.