Neilson eyes double swoop

HEARTS boss Robbie Neilson is hoping to sign Scotland goalkeeper Matt Gilks and Belgian defender Faycal Rherras. Back-up keeper Jack Hamilton signed a new deal yesterday that will tie him to the Gorgie club until 2019. But with Neilson intent on sending Hamilton out on loan, it could mean Gilks will vie with Neil Alexander for the No 1 spot next season. Burnley keeper Gilks and Sint-Truiden leftback Rherras were shown around the club’s training complex this week and Neilson admits he is keen to sign the out-of-contract pair. ‘Faycal has 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.’ Asked about Gilks, he said: ‘Before you sign somebody, you have to meet them and speak to them eye-to-eye. ‘I have met a lot of players recently but we can’t sign anyone until June 9. We can only source players out.’ Hearts have also agreed to terminate Soufian El Hassnaoui’s contract, with the striker being plagued by injuries. Abiola Dauda will also leave at the end of the season and return to Vitesse Arnhem.