Heart of Midlothian can confirm that Beni Baningime, Frankie Kent, Alan Forrest and Lewis Neilson will leave upon the expiry of their contracts this summer.
All four have made important contributions to the club’s success in recent years, and will move on to next stage of their careers with the best wishes and thanks of everyone at Hearts.
Beni Baningime leaves Tynecastle in high regard following a successful five years in maroon. A popular figure with teammates and supporters, Beni joined the Jambos on a free transfer from Everton in the summer of 2021, making 127 appearances and scoring twice.
Although his first season was prematurely ended by injury, Beni helped Hearts to third place and Europe in 2021/22 and 2023/24, before becoming a mainstay under Derek McInnes as the men in maroon secured second and a Champions League qualifier.
Frankie Kent arrived from Peterborough United in 2023, recording 95 appearances and four goals for the Jambos, and was another well-liked presence around Tynecastle and Oriam.
The defender helped Hearts to third and second placed finishes in the Premiership, and contributed to memorable European nights with victories over Rosenborg, Dinamo Minsk, and Omonoia.
Alan Forrest joined the club in the summer of 2022 from Livingston, and the tricky winger scored 14 goals across 147 appearances in maroon.
Among them was an Edinburgh derby screamer in October 2023, before scoring on European night in Gorgie a year later as Hearts felled AC Omonoia 2-0 at Tynecastle.
Lewis Neilson made the move to Tynecastle Park in the summer of 2022 upon the expiration of his contract with Dundee United, making 16 appearances during the 2022/23 campaign, including five in the UEFA Conference League.
Lewis then had loan spells at Partick Thistle and St Johnstone. He returned to Gorgie in January 2025, making another seven appearances in maroon before spending last season on loan at Falkirk.
All four players depart with our sincere thanks and appreciation.
