Walker will not leave for less than £1m – Cathro

hearts: Manager sets out stall on Rangers’ transfer target

Hearts head coach Ian Cathro insists Jamie Walker will not leave Tynecastle for less than £1 million.

The Gorgie club have rejected an offer from Rangers for the 23-year-old attacker who scored 15 times last season.

The bid was reported to have been derisory but the Light Blues are expected to return with an improved offer.

However, Cathro is adamant Hearts will look for market value for Walker.

“Jamie is one of the most talented players in the country,” he told STV.

“Depending on how he works, he can go on to play at a very, very high level in the game. He will not be leaving here for anything other than a value which reflects that.”

Asked to suggest a valuation Hearts would put on a player entering the final year of his contract, Cathro said: “I think it depends on a lot of aspects.

“When you look at the market I don’t think you can bring Jamie to your club for anything less than £1m.

“But you also see (similar) players, maybe because they are at different clubs, going for more like £3m.

“The market can be a funny thing at times. We understand the quality of player that we have and, as his coach, I look forward to continuing to work with him.

“The players return tomorrow and I’ll be the first one to shake his hand and welcome him back to work.”

Meanwhile, Polish defender Rafal Grzelak has become Hearts third summer signing.

The 28-year-old joins the Jambos on a two-year deal after his contract with Polish top flight side Korona Kielce expired.

Grzelak will join Cathro’s men for the start of pre-season training, subject to international clearance.

Speaking to heartsfc.co.uk, Grzelak said: “For me, it’s important that thisclub will be my home and I’m really excited to be here.

“I’ve had a really good impression from everybody that I’ve met here so far and I’ve been told that the fans are fantastic.

“I always say that I play for the fans. When I hear the noise and cheering from the supporters, it motivates me.

“I am really looking forward to playing at Tynecastle in front of the Hearts fans.”