Accra Hearts of Oak are close to signing former Medeama trainer Samuel Boadu as new coach to replace the departed Kosta Papic, Graphic Online understands.

Coach Boadu is expected to take over the club from caretaker trainer Samuel Nii Noi, who has been in charge of the Phobians since the resignation on February 15, 2021 of Papic who has since been appointed as technical director of South African Premier Soccer League side, Black Leopards.

On Thursday, Medeama confirmed on Twitter that the club had parted ways with Boadu but did not give further details.

"Coach Samuel Boadu has left the club. We will not be making any further comments. We wish him well," Medeama said.

Following his resignation, the 35-year-old was immediately linked to the vacant coaching role at Hearts, and Graphic Online understands the Hearts leadership are convinced Boadu is the best person to lead the club to restoring the 2000 African Champions League winners to their past glory.

A source close to Medeama hinted Graphic Online that Boadu would take over as head coach of the Phobians after their 'Super Clash' with archrivals Asante Kotoko on Sunday.

“I can confirm to you that he resigned from Medeama to take up the Hearts of Oak coaching job. That will be a big step for him and that is why he wants to take up the role.

“Hearts have expressed faith in wanting him to be their coach and I think that alone offers him security,” the source noted.

Caretaker coach Nii Noi will be looking to lead Hearts to three straight victories in Ghana's biggest football fixture on Sunday, having led the club to wins over Ebusua Dwarfs and Liberty Professionals on Wednesday.

If appointed, Boadu, who is known in coaching circles as Pep Guardiola - will bring to Hearts impressive credentials as a CAF License A-certified coach who has handled clubs from the colts level to the elite division and also the head coach of Ghana's under-15 male team.

Before his move to Medeama SC, Boadu, spent five seasons at Kumasi based Division One League side, Asokwa Deportivo.