Celtic's new Hartley offer an 'insult': Hearts

Hearts have rejected a fresh bid from Celtic for Paul Hartley and have branded the offer an insult.

The Bank of Scotland Premier League champions upped their initial offer of £200,000 (€289,600) for the midfielder.

But that still got no encouragement from Hearts chairman George Foulkes, who is determined to get more for the player.

He said: “Celtic came back to Hearts yesterday afternoon with a marginally improved offer for Paul Hartley but it was not by much.

“It is really an insult and they have been given a resounding and unanimous ‘no’ by the Hearts board. I was genuinely surprised Celtic came back in as I was told they would not be coming back for him.

“Paul’s request for a transfer may have changed the set of circumstances but Hearts want an end to the saga.

“Hearts have a vital CIS Cup semi-final against Motherwell on Tuesday and we hope Paul will be fit to take his place in the team. I’m sure once this is all settled and Paul knows he’s staying at Hearts he will give 100% commitment to the club.

“I am confident Paul Hartley will remain a Hearts player once the transfer deadline has come and gone.”