Hearts manager Craig Levein has dismissed reports that Rangers are interested in signing left-back Aaron Hickey. There were claims yesterday that the Gers’ new Director of Football Ross Wilson is a big fan of the teenager and wants to bring the player to Ibrox.

Asked about the story in his pre-match press conference ahead of their game against Rangers this weekend, Levein believes it is a ploy to unsettle his player before the two sides face each other. The Hearts boss joked he was tempted to make a bid for Alfredo Morelos in return:

“Who do we play at the weekend? We’re going to put an offer in for Morelos tomorrow. I’m taking that one with a lump of salt.”

Hickey currently has a deal that expires in 2021, but despite having some time left to run on his contract, the interest from Rangers and Manchester City has prompted Hearts to open negotiations over fresh terms.

Levein confirmed that talks between the player’s father and the club are ongoing but no deal has been agreed between the two sides at the moment.