Hearts have officially confirmed William Lancefield as their new head of recruitment.

Herald and Times Sport exclusively revealed the former Southampton scout would take over the transfer hunt under sporting director Joe Savage's guidance.

Lancefield - just 28-years-old - will work on the role from down south in London but has the job of helping Robbie Neilson find new stars at Tynecastle.

The head hunter counts Tottenham and Norwich among his former clubs, the latter of which is where he worked with Savage previously.

Savage told the club website: "This is a crucial role at the club and I’m really happy that we’ve got William on board.

“He’s someone I know well and as such I’m well aware of his talents and the skills he will bring to this club.

“Although this was an appointment that we took a bit of time over because we wanted to get it right, as soon as I knew John Murray was departing I made William my No.1 target.

“I’m certain that in William we’ve got someone who will make a positive impact in the way that we recruit players that can take us forward on the pitch."