Hearts transfer news latest as Lewis Neilson on brink, Ronan move edges closer and Simms hopes

Hearts are gearing up for European football next season as they look to strengthen their squad.

Its means this summer's transfer window will be busy, with defensive reinforcements top of Robbie Neilson' s list following the departure of John Souttar.

And in a bid to replace the centre half the Edinburgh outfit are understood to be in talks with Dundee Untied youngster Lewis Neilson and it's expected to be wrapped up in the next 48 hours.

The defender's contract is up in the summer with the Tannadice side confirming his departure on Tuesday.

The 19-year-old can operate at both right back and centre half as well and is comfortable in a three-man or four-man defence.

The teen, viewed as a player with considerable potential, has represented Scotland at under-16 and under-17 level.

Neilson could add depth the Jambos' back line with the Edinburgh side reckoning the youngster could develop into a first-team regular.

Neilson's men are also in the final stages of signing Australian central defender Kye Rowles who awaits approval of his UK work permit.

The Edinburgh outfit are guaranteed a spot in the group stages of a European competition next campaign, dropping into the Conference League if they slip up during Europa League qualification.

With a successful season behind them - they finished third in the cinch Premiership and reached the Scottish Cup final - the Jambos will be looking to come back bigger and better in a bid bring silverware back to Tynecastle in some way, shape or form.

Along with backline recruits, a boost elsewhere on the pitch will also be needed if the club hope to challenge both domestically and in Europe next season.

The Jambos have emerged as the new favourites to snap up Irish midfielder Connor