HEARTS are reportedly trying to bring Robbie Neilson back to Tynecastle as manager from Dundee United.

The Scottish Sun report that Ann Budge has pinpointed Neilson as the man to take over from Daniel Stendel.

Neilson worked as Hearts manager for two seasons before moving to MK Dons in 2016.

The former Scotland international full-back led the Jambos to the Scottish Championship title and promotion in his first season in charge, and then a third-placed finish in the top flight the season after.

The speculation comes after Neilson guided United back to the Premiership last term after the season was curtailed early due to the coronavirus crisis.

Gordon Forrest and Lee McCulloch would also join Neilson at Tynecastle if a deal was agreed.

Tynecastle chief Budge is still hopeful that the Jambos will be in the Premiership next season as she entered legal proceedings against the SPFL following their decision to end the Scottish football season early.

It is understood that Stendel will remain in charge of Hearts if they can keep their place in the Premiership.

Hearts and Partick Thistle lodged a petition at the Court of Session on Wednesday with the Scottish Professional Football League having seven days to respond.

Both were consigned to relegation when clubs voted to terminate the season with their fates ratified this week when the final attempt at league reconstruction failed.

Hundreds of Hearts fans have joined fan-ownership vehicle Foundation of Hearts or increased their contribution since the club vowed to push ahead with legal action and the club have now invited direct donations by publishing their bank account details.