Hearts handed transfer embargo

The Scottish FA have issued Hearts with a transfer embargo after the club entered administration in June.

The Scottish Premiership side filed for administration after compiling debts totalling £28.4million

Club shareholders Ukio Bankas and the club’s parent company UBIG – both of which are controlled by former owner Vladimir Romanov – are owed approximately £24m of the debt.

The Edinburgh club will now not be able to bring in new players aged 21 and over until February 1 2014.

However, the punishment does not apply to those currently registered with the squad, meaning Hearts will be able to offer new deals to already-contracted players.

Administrators BDO have been tasked with saving the financially-stricken club, with a creditors meeting scheduled for August 12.

Hearts will start the new season with a 15-point deduction as a result of entering administration.