FROZEN-OUT Hearts captain Christophe Berra is surprise target for English League Two new boys Salford City.

The 34-year-old former international centre-back, given the boot at Tynecastle by new boss Daniel Stendel, has already opened talks with the club, according to a report in the Daily Record.

Salford boss Graham Alexander is keen to sign another central defender and has made a move to land his former Scotland team-mate.

Championship outfits Dundee and Queen of the South are also keen, as Scotzine reported on Sunday.

The English side have the financial backing of Manchester United’s class of ’92, including David Beckham, Gary and Phil Neville, Nicky Butt, Ryan Giggs and Paul Scholes.

Berra has previously had spells across the border with Wolves and Ipswich Town.

He has 18 months left on his Hearts contract and has been told by the incoming German coach he can leave on loan or a permanent deal.

Salford already have ex-Scotland winger Craig Conway in their ranks and their skipper is former Aberdeen striker Adam Rooney.