Hearts are demanding a £10 million transfer fee for Claudio Braga as Lyon and other clubs show interest.

Hearts are prepared to demand a significant transfer fee for star forward Claudio Braga amid growing interest from clubs across Europe, including reported attention from French giants Lyon.

The Portuguese attacker enjoyed a remarkable first season at Tynecastle after arriving from Norway last summer, quickly establishing himself as one of the standout performers in Scottish football. His impressive displays earned him multiple Player of the Year honours and made him one of the most valuable assets in the Hearts squad.

Recent reports emerging from France have suggested that Lyon have opened discussions regarding a potential move for Braga. While speculation continues to grow around his future, Hearts are making it clear that they have no intention of allowing the player to leave cheaply.

According to information understood by Record Sport, the club’s recruitment partner, Jamestown Analytics, has placed a valuation on Braga in the region of £8 million to £10 million. Hearts are therefore expected to reject any offers that fall below that figure and will only seriously consider negotiations if clubs are willing to meet their substantial asking price.

The Edinburgh side are keen to protect their investment after securing Braga for just £400,000 from the Norwegian second division only a year ago. His rapid rise has dramatically increased his market value, and Hearts believe they are justified in demanding a record-breaking fee should they decide to sell.

Supporters are naturally anxious about the possibility of losing another key player during the summer transfer window. The recent departure of Lawrence Shankland to Rangers has already been a major talking point among the fanbase, and many would be disappointed to see Braga leave after only one season.

However, Hearts remain determined to maximise any potential transfer opportunity. Club officials understand that Braga’s stock has never been higher, and they are prepared to stand firm in negotiations if interest continues to intensify.

While uncertainty surrounds Braga’s future, Hearts are simultaneously working on strengthening their own attacking options ahead of the new campaign.

One player who has reportedly emerged on the club’s radar is PEC Zwolle striker Koen Kostons. The Dutch forward is believed to be attracting interest from the Tynecastle hierarchy as they assess potential additions to their squad.

Kostons enjoyed a productive season last year, scoring 11 goals in 34 appearances while also contributing six assists. His performances have caught the attention of several clubs, with Hearts now reportedly among those monitoring his situation closely.

The 26-year-old only joined Zwolle from German side SC Paderborn last summer. However, he spent the second half of the campaign on loan at Belgian club Kortrijk, where he continued to gain valuable experience and showcase his attacking qualities.

Despite having only recently arrived at Zwolle, Kostons remains under contract for another three years. As a result, any club interested in signing him would need to negotiate a transfer fee with the Dutch outfit.

Reports from Dutch outlet De Stentor suggest that Hearts would need to pay approximately €1.5 million to secure Kostons’ services. While not an insignificant sum, it is a figure that could prove manageable if the club generates substantial income from outgoing transfers.

Zwolle’s technical director Gerry Hamstra has acknowledged that there is interest in Kostons and hinted that developments regarding the striker’s future may occur in the near future.

Although Hamstra declined to reveal the identities of interested clubs, he admitted that movement is expected before the transfer window closes.

“There is slight interest; something is going to happen,” Hamstra stated, fuelling further speculation surrounding the player’s next destination.

Kostons could represent an attractive option for Hearts, particularly given the arrival of incoming manager Wouter Vrancken. The Belgian coach is believed to be familiar with the striker from his time working in Belgium.

Vrancken’s previous roles included spells at Kortrijk and Sint-Truiden, meaning he would have had opportunities to observe Kostons closely during his recent appearances in the Belgian Pro League.

The 47-year-old is expected to become Hearts’ new manager after emerging as the preferred candidate to replace Derek McInnes. The recruitment process involved extensive interviews conducted by sporting director Graeme Jones and chairman Calum Paterson, who spent last week evaluating several potential candidates.

Former AZ Alkmaar head coach Maarten Martens and Feyenoord assistant Rene Hake were both considered during the search. However, Vrancken ultimately emerged as the leading choice and is now expected to take charge at Tynecastle.

Assuming there are no unexpected complications, the Belgian will oversee Hearts as they prepare for next month’s Champions League qualifying campaign. His arrival marks the beginning of a new era for the club, one that could involve significant activity both in terms of incoming and outgoing transfers.

Much of the attention over the coming weeks is likely to focus on Claudio Braga. Interest from clubs such as Lyon underlines just how impressive his debut season has been, while Hearts’ £8-10 million valuation demonstrates their determination to protect one of their most prized assets.

Whether Braga remains in Edinburgh or moves on for a substantial fee, Hearts are positioning themselves to ensure any decision benefits the club both on and off the pitch as preparations continue for another important season.