Tony Docherty says it will take a substantial offer to prise in-demand Luke McCowan away from Dundee.

Hibs have already had an opening bid for the 26-year-old knocked back but David Gray remains interested in bringing him to Easter Road. EFL League One side Bolton Wanderers also failed with an approach for the Dundee captain, who has now entered the final year of his contract on Tayside.

After Sunday's derby draw with rivals Dundee United, Docherty addressed the interest as 'pure speculation', and that he expects McCowan to continue being his 'driving force' until he's informed otherwise.

Asked if a 'big offer' is required to convince Dundee to sell, Docherty replied: “Aye, because he is such a valuable member of our squad. But that’s not really a question for me. I just want to surround myself with as many good players and good people as I can and Luke is both of those. It’s speculation but that’s because he’s a good player. He grabbed the game for us on Sunday.

"He went on to be the best performer on the pitch and when you do that, of course he will attract attention. People say this, that and the other thing. For me, it is pure speculation – until I get told there is anything happening. Luke is my captain, a driving force around the place.”

Even as noise around the former Ayr United midfielder intensifies, Docherty has no concerns that he will lose focus.

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“No, he’s got a level head," the Dundee manager added. "He shows real maturity and people can see that in his interviews. He shows a real level of maturity. He’s not a daft boy, he knows how to conduct himself. Luke became a big part of our leadership group last season and thrives on that responsibility.

“He’s one of those players who puffs his chest out with a bit of responsibility and shows leadership. You can see that developing in him. That’s why he’s such an important player at Dundee and, listen, he loves it here. He loves it. So until I know, he’s my player, he’s my wee buddy and he will keep playing.”