Hearts close in on Jordi Altena with six-figure January move

Heart of Midlothian are on the brink of completing the signing of Dutch defender Jordi Altena from RKC Waalwijk in a transfer expected to exceed £500,000. Sources indicate the move is nearing completion, with negotiations at an advanced stage ahead of the January transfer window. The 22-year-old is under contract with RKC until 2028, but Hearts have pushed strongly to secure his services and are now firm favourites to conclude the deal.

The Edinburgh club have moved decisively after receiving approval from their recruitment partners, Jamestown Analytics, who have been closely involved in identifying Altena as a suitable addition. Hearts view the defender as a long-term option at right-back and believe he fits the club’s profile in terms of age, development potential, and attacking output.

Altena’s footballing journey began in the youth ranks at Vitesse Arnhem, where he was initially developed as a midfielder. Over time, he transitioned into a more advanced full-back role, becoming known for his attacking instincts from the right side of defence. His career took a brief detour into amateur football last season when he joined De Treffers, a club competing in the Netherlands’ third tier. However, a clause in his contract allowed him to return to the professional game, which he did last summer by signing for RKC Waalwijk.

He initially joined RKC on a one-year deal in the Eerste Divisie, but his strong performances quickly convinced the club to extend his contract. Since then, Altena has emerged as one of the standout attacking defenders in the division, attracting attention from several clubs across Europe and beyond.

Belgian outfit Union Saint-Gilloise were among the teams linked with the player and share a connection with Jamestown and Tynecastle shareholder Tony Bloom. Interest has also been reported from Major League Soccer side DC United, as well as Spanish club Real Valladolid. Despite that competition, Hearts are confident they have won the race, having moved early and decisively to finalise an agreement.

Statistically, Altena has been one of the most attack-minded defenders in the Dutch second tier this season. Although primarily a right-back, he ranks among the top nine players in the league for shots on target. Across 23 appearances for RKC, he has attempted 42 shots, with 23 testing the goalkeeper. His return of four goals and eight assists in all competitions underlines his influence in the final third and suggests he could adapt well to a higher level.

Jamestown Analytics believe Altena possesses the technical quality, athleticism, and tactical awareness to develop further in Scotland. Hearts see him not only as immediate competition but also as a player whose value could increase significantly over time.

At Tynecastle, the right-back position has been an area of concern this season. Norwegian defender Christian Borchgrevink arrived from Vålerenga in June as a specialist option, but injuries have limited his impact so far. In his absence, Irish midfielder Oisin McEntee and Austrian centre-back Michael Steinwender have both filled in on the right side of defence. Altena is expected to arrive ready to challenge for the role during the second half of the campaign, adding depth and attacking balance.

Hearts are also making progress with other January business. An agreement is already in place for Kazakhstan international winger Islam Chesnokov, who will join on a pre-contract deal. Chesnokov is due to arrive before the end of the month and will be registered with the Scottish Football Association once the transfer window opens. His first appearance could come at Tynecastle against Livingston on 3 January, as Hearts continue to strengthen their squad for the remainder of the season.