Keir McMeekin confirmed his Hearts exit (Image: Malcolm Mackenzie)
Keir McMeekin confirmed his Hearts exit (Image: Malcolm Mackenzie)
Keir McMeekin has confirmed his Heart of Midlothian exit as he gets set to join Manchester City in the summer.
The 16-year-old midfielder is the latest Hearts academy youngster to leave the club for England, following in the footsteps of the likes of Ewan Simpson (Aston Villa) and John Dodds (Everton).
Several clubs were interested in McMeekin including Manchester United, but their city rivals won the race to prise him away from the Scottish capital.
A highly-rated Scotland under-17s cap, Hearts were very keen to keep the player and saw a pathway into the first-team for him, potentially even as soon as next season.
Derek McInnes is a big fan and has had him training with the first-team and taking part in bounce games.
But his move to Manchester City will go ahead and McMeekin today said goodbye to the club after 10 years.
He wrote on social media: "After 10 great years at this club it’s time to say goodbye. I’ve loved every second of my time here and made so many friends I’ll never forget.
"I also want to thank all my teammates, coaches and staff for giving me so many opportunities and for making me a better player and also person."
First team star Cammy Devlin replied: "Go on my son, proud of you brother."
And Finlay Pollock said: "Nice bro, good luck."