Hearts have pulled out of a move for former player Paul Hartley amid speculation he refused to sign a statement distancing himself from the 'Riccarton Three' episode. Four years ago, during his first spell at Hearts, Hartley, Craig Gordon and Steven Pressley issued a shock statement at the club's Riccarton training ground claiming unrest among the squad over majority shareholder Vladimir Romanov's rule.

They were branded the Riccarton Three and within months all had left Tynecastle.

The 33 year old could now join Aberdeen, who have also been trailing the former Celtic player.

A Hearts spokesperson told the Scottish Sun: "Although our interest has now cooled in Paul Hartley, there are five weeks remaining before the transfer window closes. There are still a number of opportunities currently being explored to ensure we can bring in the right person."