Ryan Stevenson goes as Hearts start to off-load

RYAN STEVENSON was today set to sign for Ipswich Town in a £50,000 move, with Hearts likely to let further first-team players leave before the transfer window closes tomorrow.

While Jambos talisman Stevenson, who had been on strike for more than a month after receiving his wages late, prepared to join the relegation-threatened English Championship club, his former Hearts team-mates David Obua and Suso Santana could be the next to leave Tynecastle.

Hearts are keen to offload more senior players, with the club understood to be willing to let Obua and Suso leave on a free transfer should clubs show an interest in signing the pair, who are both out of contract this summer.

Reports have also linked David Templeton with a move to Rangers, should Gers striker Nikica Jelavic complete a move to Everton. Talks between the two clubs over the Croat are set to open in the next 24 hours.

Stevenson, who became a cult hero to Jambos fans in his two years at the club, was delighted to have earned a move to Suffolk after hitting nine goals in 61 SPL appearances in the maroon of Hearts.

“I had a few other teams interested, but when a club of the stature of Ipswich comes in for you, you take it,” the recent Scotland squad member told the Ipswich Town website.

“It’s a massive opportunity for me, too big to turn down and I can’t wait to get going. I’m looking forward to training with the lads and I want to hit the ground running, impress the manager and force my way into the side.

“Playing in England has always been a big ambition of mine and to have a chance of playing for such a big club and alongside so many top players is fantastic.”