Hearts secure Colombian international Andres Salazar on season-long loan
Colombian defender Salazar signs on loan for Hearts’ 2024/25 campaign Credit: None
Hearts have announced the loan signing of Colombian international left-back Andres Salazar for the 2024/25 season.
The 21-year-old joins the Edinburgh club from Atletico Nacional, one of Colombia's top-tier teams.
After developing his skills in Atletico Nacional’s youth system, he gained crucial experience on loan in Colombia's second division during 2021 and 2022.
In 2023, he made his senior debut for Atletico Nacional, where he played a key role in the team's journey to the final of the Torneo Apertura. Although they narrowly missed out on the title, losing in a penalty shootout, they went on to secure a third-place finish in the aggregate league standings.
Salazar also showcased his abilities on the continental stage, featuring in four matches in the Copa Libertadores, South America's equivalent to the Champions League.
On the international front, Salazar has represented Colombia at various youth levels, including the 2022 South American Games, the 2023 U20 South American Championship, and the 2023 U20 World Cup.
His impressive performances earned him a call-up to the senior national team, where he made his debut in a 1-0 victory over Iraq in 2023.
Hearts’ Head Coach Steven Naismith expressed his satisfaction with the signing, stating, "A lot of hard work has gone into making this deal possible, so I’m happy that it’s now over the line."
He added, "In Andres, we’re getting a quality player with loads of experience, despite his young age. He’s played domestic, continental, and international football, so he’ll bring that knowledge to the dressing room."
Naismith also highlighted the impact Salazar could have on the team dynamics, saying, "His talent means there will be healthy competition amongst the squad for a place in the starting line-up, and I’m looking forward to working with him."
