"Hearts" can gain strength safely with "Benfica" © EuroFootball.com

In January, Edinburgh club controlled by Lithuanian businessman Vladimiras Romanovas could be reinforced by Lisbon defender Bruno Aguiar. The Portuguese player would join the Scottish capital club on a trial basis and, if suitable for the technical staff, sign a contract.

The 24-year-old defender played 18 matches last season for Portuguese champions Benfica, but has appeared rarely on the field this year.

"He is one of the possible signings," said head coach Graham Rix to Hearts' website. "But I don't want to say too much. Many things can go wrong when trying to fit in with the club or player. We need to make sure he is the right player."

The defensive midfielder, known for his tough style of play, has been representing Benfica since he was nine. He spent two seasons on loan at FC Alverca, but was invited back to Lisbon in the summer of 2004.

This season, B. Aguiar has been recovering from an injury for most of the time, but now, it seems, he has fully recovered.