The Romanian youngster, frustrated by a lack of first-term opportunities, fled to his homeland without permission and has not been seen at Tynecastle since.

He did offer to come back shortly before the end of the season but, with the club concerned that he was only seeking to ensure that he was paid over the summer, was told to stay away until preparations for the 2008/09 campaign get underway.

He has been on unpaid leave ever since going missing and the hard-line approach by the Jambos appears to have worked as his agent, Adrian Stefanescu, confirmed that the 18-year-old has rediscovered his desire to be a success in Scotland.

"He will be back on Monday and he is looking forward to returning to Hearts," Stefanescu told The Scotsman.

"He didn't have many opportunities last season despite everyone telling him he was doing well. I think that is what was annoying for him. He played in two friendly matches in Germany and did very well in both.

"Of course, he did make some mistakes and he is determined not to make these again. He realises these mistakes and he wants a chance in the first team so hopefully won't make these again.

"All summer he has been planning on returning and he has been training hard. He is hoping to get a chance in the first team and this is the only reason he is going back - to get a chance."