The Hearts defender is a reported target for Aston Villa.
Hearts manager Robbie Neilson
Heart of the Midlothian manager Robbie Neilson has told the Edinburgh Evening News John Souttar knows himself he’s not ready to move clubs.
Souttar has impressed since arriving at Tynecastle from Dundee United in January and was linked with a move to Aston Villa last week (Scottish Sun).
The English Championship side are said to have watched the centre-back extensively this season and have reportedly maintained an interest following the arrival of Steve Bruce as manager.
Aston Villa manager Steve Bruce
Neilson, however, appears to have scuppered any plans Aston Villa may have to snare Souttar in the coming transfer window.
“We’ve certainly not got any plans to cash in on John,” Neilson told the Evening News. “He’s one of our key players. He’s been great this season but he knows himself he’s got a few years left here before he’s ready to make a move.”
Souttar is yet to miss a single league minute for Hearts this season, helping his side to third in the standings.
John Souttar in action for Dundee United
Though only 19, the Scotland Under-21 international is fast approaching his 100th appearance in Scotland’s top flight.
A move to England’s Midlands however, may appeal given that Souttar’s younger brother, Harry, recently joined Stoke City.
Having previously signed Souttar’s Dundee United teammate Andrew Robertson while at Hull City, Bruce is likely to have known of the alleged Aston Villa target for some time.
Hull City’s Andrew Robertson
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