Hearts Complete Goalkeeper Swap
Heart of Midlothian have confirmed the imminent exit of Alexander Schwolow and the capture of his replacement, Beau Reus, in a rapid reshaping of their goalkeeping department.
Schwolow, 34, is returning to his native Germany with Mainz on 1 August after just one season at Tynecastle, while Dutchman Reus, 24, arrives as a free agent on a three-year contract from Belgian side Beveren.
The moves come as new head coach Wouter Vrancken looks to build a squad capable of challenging for the Scottish Premiership title again, after Hearts finished runners-up last term.
Schwolow's Solid Season Ends with Move Home
Alexander Schwolow departs having made 33 appearances for Hearts, keeping 15 clean sheets. The former Freiburg and Hertha Berlin goalkeeper quickly established himself as a reliable presence, and Hearts described him as a "much-valued member of the squad".
"We agreed to his request to move closer to home," the club said in a statement.
The undisclosed fee facilitates his transfer to Mainz, where he will continue his career in the Bundesliga. Schwolow's contribution was vital in Hearts' push for a second-place finish, and his consistent performances will be remembered fondly by the Tynecastle faithful.
Reus: A Tall Presence for the Future
Beau Reus, standing at 6ft 6in, joins after four seasons with Belgian side Beveren. He helped them win the Challenger Pro League title last season, the second tier of Belgian football.
The 24-year-old is expected to compete for the number one jersey and offers a physical, commanding presence between the posts. His signing on a free transfer represents a shrewd piece of business for Hearts, who are operating on a tight budget.
Reus's height and shot-stopping ability make him a natural fit for the physical demands of the Scottish Premiership, and at 24 he still has room to develop under Vrancken's coaching staff.
Hearts' Goalkeeping Shake-Up Under Vrancken
With Craig Gordon having retired, and Liam McFarlane (Partick Thistle) and Harry Stone (Ayr United) out on loan, the only other first-team experienced goalkeepers are Ryan Fulton and Zander Clark.
Reus's arrival adds immediate competition and ensures Vrancken has three senior options to choose from ahead of the new campaign. The club are clearly planning for the long term, as the 24-year-old Dutchman joins on a deal until 2029.
Key facts:
- Schwolow's 2025/26 record: 33 apps, 15 clean sheets
- Schwolow's transfer fee: undisclosed
- Reus's contract: three years, free agent
- Reus's height: 6ft 6in
- Other senior keepers: Ryan Fulton, Zander Clark
Source: BBC Sport
