Joe Kinnear left Nottingham Forest a year ago

The 58-year-old said: "Hearts have made an approach to my agent and I am very keen to find out more about the job.

"The prospect of working in Scotland at a club that is clearly going places excites me."

Kinnear, who left Forest a year ago, also says he is on the short-list for the Republic of Ireland manager's post.

"It's flattering to be on the Ireland short-list," he added.

"Everyone knows it's always been an ambition of mine to lead my country's football team.

"I've stayed close to the game and I see at least one match a week. My appetite for football remains undiminished."

Hearts confirm director in post

Hearts chairman Roman Romanov said last month that a well-known figure was already "working incognito" for the club.

And head coach Graham Rix insists he is in the dark with regards the possibility of teaming up with Kinnear.

"I obviously know Joe through the football world but we've never worked together," said Rix.

"I know he has a good reputation but I know absolutely nothing about him coming here."