Hearts of Oak are on the verge of naming Maxwell Konadu as their new head coach, with the former Black Stars assistant reportedly emerging as the leading candidate among three shortlisted names.

According to multiple local media reports, the club’s board has identified Konadu as the preferred option to replace Aboubakar Ouattara, who is expected to leave at the end of the current season.

The move marks a potential shift in direction for the Phobians following another underwhelming campaign, despite earlier hints that Ouattara could be retained.

Hearts are poised to finish the season without a trophy for a second consecutive year.

Konadu, who most recently managed South African outfit Black Leopards, departed the club earlier in 2025 under undisclosed circumstances. He is now seen as the ideal candidate to lead a technical rebuild as the club prepares for the upcoming season.

Other contenders for the job include Prosper Narteh Ogum, formerly of Asante Kotoko, and ex-Hearts coach Samuel Boadu.

However, Kumasi-based Opemsuo Radio reports that Konadu is currently ahead in the selection process, with Ogum still considered a strong alternative.

Hearts of Oak sit fifth on the Ghana Premier League table with 52 points and are set to face Legon Cities in their final fixture of the season.