Four players are set to leave Tynecastle.

Heart of Midlothian F.C. have officially announced that four members of their first-team squad will leave the club when their contracts expire later this summer.

Midfield player Beni Baningime, defender Frankie Kent, winger Alan Forrest, and defender Lewis Neilson are all set to move on from Tynecastle after contributing significantly to the club over recent seasons.

The Edinburgh side expressed their appreciation to each player for their efforts in maroon and wished them well as they prepare for the next stages of their careers away from Gorgie.

Baningime Leaves After Five Memorable Years

Baningime departs Tynecastle with a strong reputation among both supporters and teammates following an impressive five-year spell with the Jambos.

The midfielder originally arrived in Edinburgh during the summer of 2021 after leaving Everton F.C. on a free transfer. Despite dealing with injury setbacks during parts of his time at the club, Baningime established himself as an important figure in the Hearts squad and became one of the most respected players in the dressing room.

Over the course of his time in maroon, the midfielder made 127 appearances and scored two goals while consistently impressing with his energy, composure, and work ethic in the middle of the pitch.

Although his debut campaign was interrupted prematurely because of injury problems, Baningime still played a role in helping Hearts secure a third-place finish during the 2021/22 season, which ensured qualification for European competition.

He would later help the club repeat that achievement in the 2023/24 campaign, once again contributing to another successful league finish and further European football for the Edinburgh side.

Under manager Derek McInnes, Baningime eventually became a regular starter and a vital part of the team as Hearts secured second place in the Premiership and earned a place in the Champions League qualifying rounds.

His influence on and off the pitch made him a hugely popular figure at Tynecastle, and the club’s supporters will undoubtedly remember his commitment and professionalism fondly.

Frankie Kent’s Strong Contribution Recognised

Kent will also leave Hearts having made a significant contribution since joining the club from Peterborough United F.C. in 2023.

The central defender quickly became an important part of the Hearts back line and went on to make 95 appearances for the club during his time in Edinburgh. In addition to his defensive work, Kent also chipped in with four goals in maroon.

Highly regarded around both Tynecastle and the club’s Oriam training base, Kent earned praise for his attitude and leadership qualities throughout his spell with the Jambos.

During his time at Hearts, the defender helped the club secure third-place and second-place finishes in the Scottish Premiership, continuing the team’s strong performances domestically.

Kent was also involved in several memorable European occasions for the club. Hearts supporters enjoyed important victories over Rosenborg BK, FC Dinamo Minsk, and AC Omonia during his spell at Tynecastle, with the defender playing his part in those notable nights.

His consistency and reliability at the back ensured he became a trusted member of the squad, and the club acknowledged the role he played during an encouraging period for Hearts both domestically and in Europe.

Alan Forrest Ends Productive Spell in Edinburgh

Forrest is another player moving on after enjoying several productive seasons with Hearts.

The winger joined the Edinburgh club from Livingston F.C. during the summer of 2022 and went on to make 147 appearances in maroon.

Across those appearances, Forrest scored 14 goals and became known for his pace, creativity, and ability to produce important moments in big matches.

One of his most memorable contributions came during the Edinburgh derby in October 2023 when he scored a spectacular goal that quickly became a favourite among Hearts supporters.

Forrest also enjoyed memorable moments in European competition. A year after his derby heroics, the winger scored during a European night at Tynecastle as Hearts defeated AC Omonia 2-0 in Gorgie.

That performance added another highlight to Forrest’s spell at the club and further strengthened his connection with the Hearts support.

Throughout his time in Edinburgh, Forrest established himself as a hardworking and dependable attacking option capable of making an impact in important matches.

His contribution over nearly 150 appearances ensured he played a meaningful role during one of the more successful periods the club has enjoyed in recent years.

Neilson Departs Following Loan Spells and Return

Neilson will also leave Tynecastle following a spell that included first-team appearances, development opportunities, and multiple loan moves.

The defender joined Hearts in the summer of 2022 after his contract with Dundee United F.C. expired.

During the 2022/23 season, Neilson featured 16 times for Hearts and gained valuable experience, including making five appearances in the UEFA Conference League.

The young defender later spent time away from Tynecastle to continue his development, enjoying loan spells with Partick Thistle F.C. and St Johnstone F.C..

Neilson returned to Gorgie in January 2025 and added another seven appearances for Hearts before spending the most recent campaign on loan at Falkirk F.C..

Although his opportunities in the first team were limited compared to some of the other departing players, the defender remained highly regarded for his professionalism and attitude during his time at the club.

Hearts Thank Departing Quartet

As the summer rebuild continues at Tynecastle, Hearts have taken the opportunity to thank all four players for their efforts and commitment during their time with the club.

Each player contributed in different ways across domestic and European competitions, helping Hearts remain competitive at the top end of Scottish football over recent years.

From Baningime’s influence in midfield and Kent’s defensive reliability to Forrest’s memorable attacking moments and Neilson’s development through the ranks, the departing quartet all leave having played their part in the club’s recent successes.

The club’s official statement expressed sincere gratitude and appreciation to Baningime, Kent, Forrest, and Neilson as they now prepare to begin the next chapters of their respective careers away from Tynecastle Park.