New Hearts forward Craig Wighton admits he was desperate to move to Tynecastle as soon as he heard of the Gorgie outfit’s interest.
The 21-year-old made the switch from Dundee on a three-year deal yesterday after both clubs agreed an undisclosed six-figure fee.
Wighton, who missed most of last season with a serious knee injury, made a total of 92 appearances for the Dens Park club after being handed a debut as a 16-year-old.
However, the Scotland under-21 cap admits the chance to sign for Craig Levein’s side was too good an opportunity to turn down.
Wighton, who has become the club’s 15th summer arrival, said: “When I first heard, I straightaway knew what I wanted; I wanted to come here.
“When a club like Hearts comes in for you then you can’t turn that down. I just wanted to come here as soon as I found out and I’m glad it’s done.
“The club paying a fee does make you feel wanted and I think that’s important.
“There is a manager here who I’ve known for a number of years and always got on well with, so it’s good to have that as well.
“The fact that Hearts have paid money shows that they wanted me to come and I hope to repay them.
“I’m absolutely delighted to be here and I can’t wait to get started with the game at the weekend against St Mirren.”
Hearts defender John Souttar, himself also 21, earned a full Scotland call-up this week after making the move from Dundee United in January 2016 and Wighton believes he is in the perfect place to progress his career.
He added: “Hearts giving young players a chance is a massive factor in me joining.
"The young boys have played throughout the years but especially in the last couple of seasons.
“You’ve got a lot of good young players and they’re getting a chance at such a big club."
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