Hearts boss Robbie Neilson has refused to discuss a move for Dundee United’s John Souttar.
The capital side were linked with the teenager earlier this week, but Neilson kept his counsel on the matter when quizzed today.
Hearts’ initial bid for Souttar – reported to be worth £100,000 – has been knocked back by United.
With the defensive midfielder out of contract in the summer, though, Tannadice chairman Stephen Thompson may yet decide to cash in on the highly-rated 19-year-old.
Neilson, however, would only say: “I’m not going to talk about someone who is not my player. Any business we do for any player at this club is always done behind closed doors.”
The Hearts boss also warned the trouble-making element in the Gorgie support their antics are putting his transfer plans at risk.
Jambos chairwoman Ann Budge this week revealed the club will have to fork out up to £50,000 calling in extra police to Tynecastle following a number of recent incidents.
Budge was angered by reports of fighting in the streets before and after this month’s 6-0 romp against Motherwell.
And verbal abuse hurled at Dundee United boss Mixu Paatelainen at a match just before New Year is now being investigated by the Scottish Professional Football League.
Neilson claims the cash the club are having to spend to beef up security is money he will have to do without as he looks to add to his squad before Monday’s transfer deadline.
“It affects the club as a whole,” said Neilson. “It affects the product on the park, especially if we are having to spend money that we haven’t the budget for.
“We’re having to do that now and that is the disappointing thing.”