Hearts have completed the signing of Republic of Ireland striker Stephen Elliott on a two-year contract.
The 26-year-old was released by Preston earlier this summer having scored just one goal in nine appearances for the Lilywhites last term.
But Jambos boss Jim Jefferies has swooped to secure the services of the nine-times capped forward, and is looking forward to seeing him in action for the Tynecastle club.
"Stephen's a player I have known about for a while and is someone who has proven himself to be a goalscorer wherever he has played," he told the club's official website.
"He has an excellent pedigree and has played at the highest level with the Republic of Ireland.
"I am delighted to have brought him here as there was a lot of interest in him from down south."
Jefferies also hopes the former Sunderland forward will strike up a good partnership with fellow summer signing Kevin Kyle, who he played alongside during his time with the Black Cats.
He continued: "He has partnered Kevin Kyle up front before in his Sunderland days so I'm looking forward to seeing the pair link up again.
"I have spoken to a number of people in England about him and they have all given me glowing recommendations. I think he will do really well here."
Source: PA
