A TRIO OF CLUBS STILL IN RUNNING TO SIGN SOUTTAR

John Souttar has narrowed his next club down to rangers, Blackburn or Sheffield united.

Sportsmail first revealed Ibrox interest in the hearts defender, as well as from nine English Championship suitors, after he scored for Scotland against Denmark in november.

having assessed his options, the 25-year-old (pictured) will now sign a pre-contract agreement with one of the three clubs, with hearts reluctant to accept a knockdown fee for the central defender to leave this month.

Meanwhile, Craig halkett has expressed his delight after extending his contract at tynecastle until the summer of 2024.

the centre-back’s deal was due to his expire at the end of this campaign, but he has now committed himself to hearts for a further two seasons.

halkett told hearts tV: ‘Staying here was something I always had in the back of my mind. these things always take some time to sort out, but I’m really happy to get it done and I’m looking forward to progressing my career at hearts.’

halkett has made 88 appearances for hearts since arriving in 2019 and has been at the heart of a strong defence which has helped robbie neilson’s team to third place in the cinch Premiership.

however, the defender admits he has had to overcome difficult times in Gorgie after the Jambos were relegated to the Championship in his first season.

he added: ‘It’s been quite a journey. Where we are now is probably where I thought we were going to be back in 2019.

‘I always saw this club as one that goes for the top end of the table and pushes for European places, one that wants to get to cup finals and win trophies. ‘We’re in third at the minute and have a chance to progress in the Scottish Cup. that’s the aim going forward.’

neilson was delighted to have secured the defender for a further two seasons, saying: ‘Craig is a big player for us and he’s really come into his own this season with some standout performances.

‘to have him around for the next two-and-a-half years is welcome news and I’m sure he and the team will continue to go from strength to strength.’

Sporting director Joe Savage admitted it was an easy decision to offer halkett a new contract as he hinted there would be ‘more good news’ to come.

he said: ‘It’s great news ahead of our return to action, and I’m hopeful that we’ll have more good news in the coming days.’

hearts also confirmed winger Jamie Walker has joined Bradford on loan until the end of the season.