Hearts majority shareholder Vladimir Romanov took a step closer to taking overall control of the Edinburgh club after shareholders Leslie Deans and Robert McGrail agreed to sell their stakes in the club to the Lithuanian.
Romanov will confirm his increased stake in the club from 29% to 55.5% next week when he takes control of Scottish Media Group and Halifax Bank of Scotland's shares.
But the Lithuanian is looking to reach the 75% which will enable him to de-list the club from the London Stock Exchange. Deans and McGrail's total shares come to just short of 18% which will take Romanov just shy of his target.
However, despite the sacking of chief executive Phil Anderton and the resignation of chairman George Foulkes on Monday, both shareholders believe Romanov has the best interests of the club at heart.
The ex-Jambos' chairman and McGrail met with Romanov and his son and interim chief executive, Roman, on Friday.
Deans said in a statement issued on behalf of himself and McGrail: "I first met Vladimir Romanov early in 2004 and I felt strongly at that time he was the right man to take Hearts forward. My view today is unchanged.
"He has reiterated to us his vision for the club and I feel his goals are achievable.
"As a result, while we still have to see the offer document, it is our intention to accept the forthcoming offer subject to satisfaction on the precise offer details for our respective shareholdings."
