Hearts sniffy over Palace bid link

Last updated : 06 January 2006 By Nik Taylor

Hearts have dismissed reports that Crystal Palace could soon sign their Scottish international midfielder Paul Hartley.

Iain Dowie is believed to be interested in bringing the 29-year-old midfielder to Selhurst Park for a fee of around £800,000 – alhough SPL heavyweights Celtic and Rangers are also in the frame.

But high-flying Hearts insist they have no intention of derailing their season by selling a key player.

"We will not entertain any such bids for Paul," said a Hearts spokesman.

"He is an integral member of our team and we expect him to play a pivotal role in the ongoing development of Heart of Midlothian Football Club."