Dundee’s star man Greg Stewart has rejected the offer of a new deal, Courier Sport understands.
Stewart has entered the final year of his contract at Dens Park and is attracting the attention of Aberdeen, Rangers and Hearts, as well as clubs in England.
Manager Paul Hartley confirmed last week that discussions had begun with a view to an extension for the former Cowdenbeath man, who has been nominated for Scotland’s PFA player of the year award two years in a row.
And it’s understood the 26-year-old has knocked back the Dark Blues’ first offer to keep him at Dens Park beyond next summer.
Talks could yet bear fruit but, if they don’t, Dundee will have to decide whether to cash in on Stewart or risk losing him for nothing in 12 months.
Speaking last week, Hartley said: “We have spoken to Greg and his agent and we have made him an offer.
“That has only happened in the last day or two but we are positive on that.
“He’s somebody we want to keep but it’s a fact that players have ambitions, also.
“We don’t want to sell him but we realise the other end of things.”