Hearts of Midlothian, Iraklis (Slovakia) and Sheffield United have joined the race to snap up midfielder Paul Hartley who has become a free agent after leaving Scottish Premier League club Glasgow Celtic.

Hartley, 32 has been capped 22 times (1 goal) by Scotland and is searching for a new club after being released by Glasgow Celtic; whom finished second in the SPL behind giants Glasgow Rangers.

It is understood that the midfielder is to arrive shortly at Bramall Lane to hold talks with Blades boss Kevin Blackwell.