Claudio Braga attracting interest from Ligue 1 side Lyon
Claudio Braga could become one of Hearts’ record sales with Lyon reportedly preparing a move for the 26-year-old forward
Hearts forward Claudio Braga is the subject of transfer interest from Lyon, according to reports in France, raising the possibility of another high-profile departure from Tynecastle this summer.
Braga, 26, enjoyed an outstanding season, winning both the Scottish Football Writers’ Association Player of the Year and the Scottish Premiership Player of the Year awards. He played a central role in Hearts’ title challenge, which ultimately ended with Celtic securing the league on the final day of the season.
The Edinburgh club have already seen significant changes ahead of the new season, with captain Lawrence Shankland and manager Derek McInnes both moving to Rangers.
French outlet Foot Mercato reports that Lyon are in discussions with Hearts over a potential deal and are aiming to reach an agreement as a priority before progressing with other transfer business.
The report values Braga at around £8.6 million (€10 million), which would represent one of the highest transfer fees received by Hearts, comparable to the club-record sale of Craig Gordon to Sunderland in 2007.
Lyon are seeking attacking reinforcements following the return of Endrick to Real Madrid after his loan spell, with Braga identified as a potential replacement. The Ligue 1 club, managed by Paulo Fonseca, finished fourth last season.
Braga remains under contract with Hearts until 2028. He scored 17 goals in all competitions last season, including 14 in the Scottish Premiership, and also contributed six assists.