BALOGH'S HEART SET ON A DEAL; PREMIER LEAGUE.

Byline: By EUAN McLEAN

JANOS BALOGH has begged Vladimir Romanov to stump up the cash to keep him at Hearts.

But the Hungarian keeper admits he'd join any SPL club because he's so desperate to stay in Scotland.

Balogh's loan deal from Debrecen in his homeland runs out a week tomorrow and Hearts have not opened talks to secure a permanent transfer.

Boss Csaba Laszlo wants to hold on to the keeper whose future hangs on owner Romanov meeting Debrecen's asking price at a time when he's looking to cut costs.

Balogh said: "I want to stay here because I enjoy the life in Scotland and the atmosphere at Hearts and I hope to sign a long-term deal.

"The two clubs have an agreement so if Hearts want me and are willing to pay then I stay. If they do not I must go back - but I don't want to.

"In Hungary the football and facilities are not as good as here.

"I know the manager wants me but it is not up to him. Debrecen do not want a lot of money but if Hearts don't have cash then the fee is too much.

"If I cannot stay at Hearts I would play for another SPL club."

Balogh will have another big chance to convince Romanov to loosen the purse strings in today's Scottish Cup derby clash.

Ironically, it was in a 1-1 draw at Easter Road last October that Balogh made his Jambos debut - now he's praying today's return to Leith isn't his last appearance in a Hearts shirt.

The 26-year-old said: "I know how special it would be to win a trophy having experienced it three times in Hungary with Debrecen and Sopron.

"I remember coming back to Debrecen to find many fans in the streets drinking and singing.

"I know this derby game means so much to the supporters and we are determined to beat Hibs."

CAPTION(S):

Balogh: Keen to stay in Scotland