Hearts skipper, Christophe Berra, has been told he can leave the club, it’s been reported.

It’s understood Berra was given the news after the New Year break.

The 34-year-old still has 18 months left on the contract but he has been informed he is free to leave now, either on loan or on a permanent deal.

The news comes weeks after the Gorgie club appointed new head coach, Daniel Stendel.