There are “hopeful” signs an agreement can be reached soon on a contract between Scottish winger Sam Nicholson and Minnesota United, but items need to fall into place for a deal to be finalized, two sources told the Pioneer Press on Friday.

Nicholson and the United are in the process of negotiating some pieces of the contract, termed “personal items,” but there’s caution that it’s not yet a done deal.

The Edinburgh News reported Friday that Nicholson is “expected” to sign a 2 1/2-year contract with Minnesota United this weekend. Both sources deemed that report premature.

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Houston Dynamo scores twice in 2nd half to tie Minnesota United The Edinburgh News reported the Loons won’t provide a transfer fee to his Scottish team, Heart of Midlothian in Edinburgh, but if Minnesota moves Nicholson to another club in the future, Hearts would receive compensation from Minnesota.

Nicholson, 22, visited Minnesota in May when his contract with his former club expired this spring. He departed Minnesota “impressed” by the Loons offer, the Edinburgh News said.

During his trip here, United sporting director Manny Lagos said Nicholson “plays a position where speed is important as a winger, and he’s really lively and brings that energy to the field. (He is) technically very good with both feet, which is important for playing on either of the ball and either side of the field, too.”

Nicholson won’t be eligible to play until Major League Soccer’s summer transfer window opens July 10, but deals with players can be agreed to before then.

Nicholson joined the Hearts when he was 12, made his first-team debut in 2013 and has 15 goals in 127 games in the Scottish Premiership, the country’s top league. He was limited last season because of a knee injury.