Hearts are set to reject an offer from Edinburgh rivals Hibernian to take John Sutton on loan.

The Easter Road club has made an enquiry about taking the striker until the end of the season but Hearts will reject that offer.

Sutton has been told that he is not part of Paulo Sergio’s plans and a number of clubs are interested in the player.

St Mirren manager Danny Lennon has already revealed that his loan offer was declined and Kilmarnock and Dunfermline have also been linked with the players.

STV understands that a loan move is not Hearts’ preferred option and that the club would rather cash in on the player this month.

Sutton still has two-and-a-half years left on his contract and the club see him as a saleable asset.

Hibs manager Pat Fenlon has already added striker Eoin Doyle this month and extended Leigh Griffiths’ loan deal but is still looking to further reshape his squad.

IN DETAIL

• St Mirren have Sutton bid rejected