Ireland under-21 defender Jimmy Dunne joins Hearts on loan from Burnley

Republic of Ireland under-21 defender Jimmy Dunne has joined Scottish Premiership side Hearts on a six-month loan from Burnley.

The 20-year-old has signed a new two-year deal with the Clarets, with an option of the third, after initially joining from Manchester United in 2016.

Dundalk native Dunne will spend the first half of the Scottish season with the Edinburgh club, who finished sixth in the top tier.

After spells on loan with Barrow and Accrington Stanley – whom he helped to the English League Two title – last season, Dunne was heaviily involved in Burnley's pre-season schedule.

He featured in friendlies against Preston North End, Montpellier and Espanyol and scored the only goal against Cork City at Turner's Cross last month.

“The new contract gives me not only security, but a chance to be part of a club that is really progressing and has been on the up for the past few seasons,” said Dunne.

“For me to remain part of that is a massive thing for me and my development.

“I will still be in contact with the coaches at Burnley and this time next year hopefully they will see me in a higher position than this summer.

“Hearts have been unfortunate with injuries, particularly at the back, and I feel lucky to have been able to get this deal to hopefully help plug the gap and play in some huge games.

“I know that Hearts have been off to a great start and they’re going to look to continue that run, so I just want to be a part of that.

“It’s a club with an amazing fan-base and seems similar in philosophy to Burnley, which should help me fit in really well.”