Mees Hilgers has ended his six-year spell at FC Twente after making 132 appearances for the Tukkers. The Indonesian international had been linked with a move to Stade Reims earlier in the transfer window, but a cruciate ligament injury put his plans on hold. His contract was automatically extended by one year due to the injury. VoetbalPrimeur reported that Heerenveen's interest in Hilgers emerged on Sunday evening, and the transfer has now been officially confirmed.

Hilgers has signed a two-year contract with Heerenveen, which will run until mid-2028. The club has an option to extend the deal by one season until mid-2029. Heerenveen's technical manager Johan Hansma expressed his delight at Hilgers' arrival, stating that the defender has the experience and quality to make a significant impact at the club.