Kye Rowles Hearts transfer update as buzzing Robbie Neilson raves about incoming defender

Hearts boss Robbie Neilson has provided an update on his side's efforts to secure the services of Australian defender Kye Rowles.

The Jambos have agreed a deal with the centre half who is set to arrive in Edinburgh from Central Coast Mariners.

Defensive reinforcements are high up on Robbie Neilson's priority following the departure of John Souttar who joins Rangers in time for next season.

And the 23-year-old Aussie could provide just what the Gorgie side are after.

A deal has been agreed and all that remains is for the player to be awarded a visa permitting him to play in Scotland.

So, it is a bit of a waiting game for now.

The centre back made his first competitive appearance for the Socceroos during their World Cup play off win over UAE on Tuesday.

The Jambos gaffer has previously detailed his thoughts on the stopped, highlighting his potential.

Rowles' arrival at Tynecastle could be a stepping stone before a bigger move in the future.

In a bid to keep fans in the loop, the Jambos boss told the Scarves Around the Funnel podcast: "We've agreed the contract, we've signed the player. It just needs to get through the GDE now which is the panel that allows us to get the visa to get him in.

"It's not quite done but we're very hopeful we'll get it over the line.

"Really, really good defender. Athletic, young, good on the ball. Left sided as well, that gives us a bit of balance.

"So I think he'll do very, very well for us. I'm really excited about getting him over.

"Having spoken to Nick Montgomery, his coach over there who is a friend of a friend, he thinks he can play down in England, Championship and potentially Premiership.

"If we can get a guy like that in, I think he'll do very well for us. I'm excited to see