Hearts are reportedly set to offer John Souttar a new contract.
According to The Scottish Sun, Hearts are planning to offer a new contract to defender John Souttar to fend off interest from Aston Villa.
Souttar, 20, was touted as one of Scottish football’s top talents during his time with Dundee United, but having stalled in a struggling side at Tannadice, he moved on to Hearts in February of this year.
John Souttar in action for Dundee United
At Tynecastle, Souttar has become a star for Hearts, making himself a key player in Robbie Neilson’s side – but also attracting major interest.
The Scottish Sun recently reported that Aston Villa are keen to lure Souttar to Villa Park having scouted him this season, and the appointment of Steve Bruce as their new manager won’t affect their pursuit.
John Souttar (L) in action with Aberdeen’s Kenny McLean
With the January transfer window fast approaching, Hearts won’t want to lose their star defender, who can also play in defensive midfield – and it seems that they are taking steps to secure his future.
The Scottish Sun claim that Hearts are poised to offer Souttar a new contract, less than a year since he penned a three-and-a-half year contract with the club in February.
Scotland’s John Souttar (L) in action with Montenegro’s Marko Ilincic
Given that Hearts are fighting a losing battle in their attempt to keep Scottish international full back Callum Paterson, Neilson’s men are attempting to make sure that Souttar stays for the long-term, potentially beyond 2019, when his current deal expires.
Depending on how those talks go, Villa may choose to look elsewhere during the January transfer window – and Souttar may yet fancy his chances of making an impact in England if given the opportunity.
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