Rangers urged to complete defender signing after ‘toxic’ Souttar reveal – pundit
It would be “best for all parties” if Hearts defender John Souttar were to seal his switch to Rangers this month, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Aberdeen striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed it will be “difficult” for the 25-year-old to continue to play at a “toxic” Tynecastle.
Rangers confirmed on 14 January that Souttar has signed a pre-contract agreement at Ibrox.
Hearts boss Robbie Neilson confirmed on Saturday (22 January) that the club have knocked back a bid to make the deal happen six months early.
According to journalist Barry Anderson (18 January), boos rang around the ground at Tynecastle every time the Scotland international touched the ball as the Jam Tarts beat St Johnstone 2-0.
Whelan insisted the “toxic atmosphere” at the Edinburgh club could mean Souttar becomes a “hindrance” to Hearts.
“I think it’s best for all parties to try and get that deal done, especially now the cat is out the bag,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“It’s going to be very difficult for him to play for Hearts. He knows he’s going to be leaving to join a rival club in a matter of months.
“Hearts are in a real predicament now. He’s clearly going to be a hindrance to the team and bring a toxic atmosphere to the ground after the permanent offer as well.
“How is it going to affect the other players when there are boos ringing around the ground?
“A fee is not to be sniffed at if you’re in Hearts’ position and set to lose him for nothing.”
Four-time Scotland international Souttar has been virtually ever-present for Hearts this term.
However, the defender missed yesterday’s 5-0 Scottish Cup win against Auchinleck Talbot with Rangers talks ongoing.
In other news, Rangers handed ‘big’ Old Firm blow after confirmed news.