Hearts in talks with Belgian defender

Hearts head coach Robbie Neilson likes to meet players as part of his assessment

Head coach Robbie Neilson has confirmed discussions with the 23-year-old, who visited Riccarton earlier this week. Rherras is available from the Belgian club Sint-Truiden and Hearts are keen to strengthen in the left-back area ahead of next season. He previously played with Vise but has spent the last three years at Sint-Truiden, who finished 13th in the 16-team Belgian top-flight.

“He’s been over here and we’ve spoken to him, but we’ve spoken to loads of players,” said Neilson. “We’ll look to see how things progress over the next few weeks. We get linked with players all the time, players get put to us all the time and we’re always looking. It’s important for us we try and bring in good players.”

Former Scotland goalkeeper Matt Gilks has also been to Edinburgh to speak with Neilson about a potential move. The Evening News has learned that he has other options in England and a deal with Hearts remains some way off at the moment.

“Again, I always feel before you sign somebody you have to meet them and speak to them eye-to-eye and see what you think about them,” said Neilson when asked about the 33-year-old keeper.