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Hearts plan talks to beat Celtic for Marc Leonard

Premier LeagueCelticHouston DynamoAston VillaSunderlandBirminghamSampdoriaAberdeenEvertonRangersDundee UnitedAzerbaïdjan

Hearts aim to sign Marc Leonard permanently from Birmingham City amid Celtic interest. Plus: Rangers manager faces review, Robbie Keane hints, transfer updates.

Hearts are planning to hold talks with Birmingham City over a permanent move for on-loan midfielder Marc Leonard, with the Scottish Premiership club aiming to beat Celtic to his signature. The 24-year-old has been a key figure for Hearts this season, and manager Steven Naismith is keen to secure his future beyond the current campaign. Celtic have also been monitoring Leonard, but Hearts hope their recent proximity to the player gives them an edge.

Celtic, meanwhile, have opened negotiations to sign forward Aaron Malouda from Azerbaijani side Sabah. The 20-year-old Frenchman has caught the eye in Azerbaijan, and Sampdoria are also expressing interest. Celtic's scouting network continues to look at emerging talent as they plan for next season.

Robbie Keane has hinted at remaining with Ferencvaros in Hungary next season, despite ongoing links to the Celtic managerial position. The former Republic of Ireland striker said he is enjoying his time in Budapest, seemingly cooling speculation about a return to Glasgow. Keane's future has been a topic of discussion given Celtic's recent struggles, but he appears settled.

Rangers manager Danny Rohl is facing a "personal review" from chairman Andrew Cavenagh after the club missed out on a top-two finish in the Scottish Premiership. The review is expected to assess Rohl's performance and the direction of the team. Rangers' failure to secure a Champions League spot has increased scrutiny on the German coach.

Bailey Rice is set to leave Rangers this summer, and Aston Villa are among the Premier League clubs interested in the 19-year-old midfielder. Rice has struggled for first-team minutes at Ibrox, and a move south could provide him with more opportunities. Villa's interest signals the high regard for the youngster's potential.

Celtic could be set to miss out on signing Soufiane El-Faouzi after Sunderland joined the race for the Schalke midfielder. The 23-year-old has attracted attention from several clubs, and Sunderland's entry adds competition. Celtic have been long-term admirers but may need to move quickly.

Dundee United have triggered a one-year contract extension for defender Ross Graham, with the player planning talks over a longer deal at Tannadice. Graham has been a consistent performer, and United are keen to tie him down for the future.

On-loan Houston Dynamo striker Toyosi Olusanya has confirmed he is open to extending his stay at Aberdeen beyond the summer. The Nigerian forward has impressed during his loan spell and would welcome a permanent move to Pittodrie.

These developments highlight a busy period of transfer activity as Scottish clubs look to strengthen ahead of next season. Hearts and Celtic's battle for Leonard could set the tone for summer dealings, while Rangers face internal scrutiny.

Based on reporting from BBC Sport.