Four have joined the race to sign Jamie McCart from St Johnstone, according to a report.
The defender was subject of a bid from Hibs at the end of last week with the Easter Road club expected to return with a second offer.
But they now face competition from a host of clubs down south, including Sheffield Wednesday, Sunderland, Nottingham Forrest and Barnsley, as well as Belgian outfit Royal Union Saint-Gilloise.
They have just achieved promotion to the top flight for the first time in 48 years and want McCart to strengthen their defence.
The Scottish Sun say all six clubs are desperate to sign him and that could push his transfer fee up.
Hibs had a bid of £200k rejected last week but Jack Ross remains a big admirer of the centre back.
The former Celtic youngster played a vital role in Saints’ cup double last season as part of a strong and young defence.
The 24-year-old joined St Johnstone in January 2020 from Inverness Caley Thistle and quickly made himself an important member of the team.
But he has just one year left on his deal and Saints could be forced to sell to ensure he doesn’t leave on a free next summer.
