John Souttar: Dundee Utd knock back Hearts' bid for defender

Dundee United have rejected a bid for defender John Souttar from fellow Scottish Premiership club Hearts.

Souttar, 19, came through the Tannadice club's youth academy and has made more than 70 appearances for United.

He has entered the final six months of his contract but boss Mixu Paatelainen said earlier this month he was optimistic the defender would stay.

United are bottom of the league, with Hearts third and both sides have reached the Scottish Cup fifth round.

Scotland Under-21 cap Souttar mostly played as a central defender under Paatelainen's predecessor Jackie McNamara, but more recently has also featured in the centre of midfield.

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