Hearts transfer latest: Head of recruitment exit explained and ace's possible next move after Gorgie emerges

Hearts are set for a busy summer transfer window with several ins and outs done already.

Lawrence Shankland has headlined departures with the striker’s move to Rangers while Beni Baningime, Frankie Kent, Lewis Neilson and Alan Forrest have all moved on. Defender MJ Kamson-Kamara has signed a deal with the Jambos and winger Josh McPake will arrive on a pre-contract from St Johnstone.

Plenty more business will be done by the Premiership side ahead of Champions League qualifiers. French midfielder Tom Renaud another on their radar and here are some of the other transfer headlines with maroon flavourings.

Why has head of recruitment left Hearts?

William Lancefield has revealed why he’s swapped Gorgie for English League One side Luton Town. The Tynecastle head of recruitment joined Hearts in 2021 after time at Southampton but is now set for the Hatters after helping integrate Tony Bloom’s Jamestown Analytics software into recruitment in the capital. Speaking on his head of recruitment role at Luton, Lancefield said: "I’m delighted to be joining Luton Town. After I met with the club and learned more about the its potential and ambition, I knew straight away this was one I wanted to be a part of. I understand what it takes to build strong, competitive squads, and I’m looking forward to working closely with Jack and the wider staff to recruit players who reflect Luton's identity and ambition."

Luton CEO Gary Sweet added: “William’s arrival is a significant coup for Luton Town. His experience, knowledge of the game and clear understanding of our needs made him the outstanding candidate for this pivotal role. We’re looking forward to working with him and excited about the impact he can make as we evolve our recruitment structure and processes in preparation for the new season and beyond.”

Who is the new Hearts goalkeeper coach?

Gordon Marshall has sent a message to St Johnstone after exiting the goalkeeper coach role in Perth to take that position at Hearts. Paul Gallacher have vacated his post in Gorgie with the ex-Celtic keeper replacing him. Marshall said: “I really want to say thank you to everybody at St Johnstone. Everyone made me feel so welcome during my time at the club.

“Last season was absolutely brilliant. To gain promotion with a great group of coaches, goalies and players was special. There is, of course, a family connection for me at Tynecastle and it is a great opportunity personally. The good people at St Johnstone have helped to put me in this situation and I will be forever grateful to them for that. I also want to thank the fans, who have always been positive towards me and the goalkeepers. I wish the club all the very best as they return to the Scottish Premiership next season.”

Where will Frankie Kent go after Hearts

Defender Kent is predicted to go to the English Championship after Hearts, it’s claimed. The centre-back has ended a three-year stint with the Jambos and inevitable links to former clubs Peterborough United in League One have emerged. Chairman Darragh MacAnthony though, speaking on The Hard Truth podcast, admits a Championship move is more likely. He said: “Your fans every time a player is released. Frankie Kent was released and it’s like ‘bring him home,’ you know, sign him. I don’t get emotional. I love Frankie and I think he will get a Championship move or whatever.”

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