Ipswich are now leading Burnley, and Blackburn in a battle race to sign 23-year-old star before transfer deadline

Burnley, Ipswich, and Blackburn are all vying for Hearts defender Alex Cochrane before the transfer deadline, according to Football Insider sources.

The 23-year-old has impressed at Edinburgh, and his performances have piqued the interest of Premier League club Burnley, as well as Championship sides Ipswich and Blackburn.

The trio have all shown an interest in a late-season transfer for the former Brighton star.

Cochrane, who can play left-back, left midfield, and central midfield, is in the final 18 months of his Tynecastle deal.

This season, the Englishman has made 21 appearances across all competitions for Hearts, contributing four assists.

Cochrane was initially loaned to the Jambos for a season in 2021, where he helped them reach the Scottish Cup final, but his transfer was made permanent for an undisclosed fee.

Hearts want to sign Brighton's Alex Cochrane on permanent deal but other issues at play

Cochrane, who can play left back, left midfield, or central midfield, is in the final 18 months of his Tynecastle deal.

This season, the Englishman has appeared in 21 games across all competitions for Hearts, contributing four assists.

Cochrane joined the Jambos on a season-long loan in 2021, when he helped them reach the Scottish Cup final, but his move was made permanent for an unknown sum.

He has made 108 appearances in all competitions, notching five goals and 13 assists.

This season, he has been everpresent for Steven Naismith’s side having started every game he has been available for in all competitions.

Alex Cochrane seals Hearts return with permanent move from Brighton & Hove Albion | STV News

He never made a first-team appearance for Brighton in his four-year spell at the club, meaning a move back to England football would see him earn his first senior minutes in English football.

Burnley have been active in their attempts to bolster their squad this month, with Football Insider revealing (24 January) that they are in talks with Ajax over a loan deal for ex-Man City winger Carlos Forbs.

Ipswich, after clinching a point against league leaders Leicester City on Monday (22 January), are keen to add to their squad as they vie for promotion to the Premier League.

Hearts are third in the Scottish Premiership following a six-game unbeaten streak.

Burnley are 19th in the Premier League table, while Ipswich Town and Blackburn Rovers are second and 17th in the Championship, respectively.

In other news, Burnley have opened talks to sign a 19-year-old ex-Manchester City player.

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