Hearts have been docked 15 points for next season by the Scottish Premier League after going into administration.

The Edinburgh-based club have also been hit with a transfer embargo following the appointment of administrators at Tynecastle Stadium on Wednesday.

"As Heart of Midlothian is subject to an Insolvency Event, a 15-point deduction will be applied to its total points in the League Championship for next season 2013-14," read a statement on the SPL's official website.

"In addition, Heart of Midlothian is subject to an embargo on registering players with the SPL whilst in administration."

It is believed that a UK-based consortium is considering a takeover of the club.