Two men who travelled from the north east of Scotland to Edinburgh to buy a car were left fighting for their lives after being attacked in a common close.
An appeal for witnesses to the incident on Wednesday at around 6pm in Wardieburn Place West has been made by police.
Police Scotland said the men had travelled from the Aberdeen area on the understanding that they were going to purchase a car.
Both were attacked within a common stair by two male suspects, who are thought to have escaped from the the scene via the large grass area at the rear of the block.
Both men were left with serious injuries and the 43-year-old man is considered to be in a critical condition.
Officers are now eager to speak to any witnesses who may have seen the two suspects.
The first suspect is described as a white man, aged 17-19 years old.
He has a Central Scotland accent and light coloured short hair, which is shaved at the sides.
He was wearing a light coloured sky blue hooded sweatshirt and grey jogging bottoms.
The second suspect is a white man in his mid-20s.
He has a stocky build and was wearing a striped top.
Detective Chief Inspector Stuart Houston said: "This was an appalling attack on two men who came to the address in good faith.
"This attack happened in daylight and we believe there may be a number of witnesses who may have seen the suspects in the area.
"Anyone with information that can help with our enquiries is urged to contact police immediately."
Anyone with information can contact Police Scotland on 101 or anonymously through Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111.
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