Hearts defender's release gives Hamilton Accies hope of a signing swoop

Hamilton Accies fans have been given hope that on-loan Hearts defender Mihai Popescu would be free to sign for them as he will be released by the Tynecastle club at the end of his contract this summer.

The 29-yeear-old Romanian was on loan at New Douglas Park last season and proved to be a big hit with supporters, who are keen for him to sign for the club permanently.

There was some concern amongst supporters when it was reported that Popescu was returning to Hearts at the end of his loan, but that would always have been the case with a deal like that.

Realistically, he would then need to be released before Accies could move for him, but they may face competition for his services.

Popescu played 32 times for Stuart Taylor's side in the Championship last term, and even scored in a 2-2 draw at home to Partick Thistle in January.

Hearts have confirmed that Popescu is one of seven players who will depart the Edinburgh club this summer, and he will be joined on his way out by Chris Hamilton, Ryan Schiavone, Harris Spratt, Jay Charleston-King, Sean Docherty and Michael Aitken.

The club said in a statement: "The club would like to thank them all for their efforts and wishes them all the best going forward."

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