Vladimir Romanov has become owner of Hearts after buying outgoing chief executive Chris Robinson’s stake in the club.

The club confirmed the takeover in an announcement to the Stock Exchange.

The statement said: “Vladimir Romanov is now the largest shareholder, owning 3,778,033 ordinary shares in Heart of Midlothian plc, representing approximately 29.905% of the issued share capital.”

Romanov had entered into an agreement in December with Robinson, Chrysalis Scotland Limited, Pentland Securities (Holdings) Limited and New Hearts Limited to buy 19.6% of shares.

Romanov replaces Chris Robinson, who took charge in 1997, who had pushed for the club to sell their Tynecastle ground and play at Murrayfield rugby stadium as a way to reduce the club’s £20m debt.