Velicka signed for Hearts from FBK Kaunas in August 2006

BBC Scotland has learned that Hearts have accepted a fee of about �1m from Norwegian club Viking Stavanger for the 28-year-old Lithuanian striker.

"As far as I'm aware Andrius is still a Hearts player," Frail told BBC Sport.

"If he becomes a Viking player then good luck to him. It would give other players here an opportunity."

Velicka, who has been on loan from FBK Kaunas since the summer of 2006, is the top goalscorer at Tynecastle this term with 14 goals.

He's still a Hearts player and if he's still a Hearts player next week then fine Stevie Frail Hearts caretaker manager

The player still has to agree personal terms with Viking, whose national transfer window closes on 1 April.

Velicka was ruled out of Saturday's crucial clash with third-placed Motherwell due to a pelvic injury.

Frail said: "He's had this problem for a while and we're trying to manage it as best we can. He hasn't trained all week and didn't travel with the squad.

"He's on loan from Kaunas but he's still a Hearts player and if he's still a Hearts player next week then fine."

Frail said other SPL managers and coaches were impressed by Velicka and often commented on his impressive performances.

"He's been a fantastic player this season, is a great worker and always wants to do well."

Velicka was Hearts' top goalscorer last season with 12 goals in all competitions.