HEARTS last night re-signed Jose Goncalves on a new two-year deal to ensure they maximise their profit from the player's possible departure to Nuremberg in 12 months' time.
The former Portuguese Under-21 cap has put pen to paper on fresh terms with the Gorgie outfit just 24 hours after agreeing a season-long loan deal with the German First Division club.
A fee has been agreed with Nuremberg should they wish to make t
he transfer of Goncalves permanent at the end of next season.
Prior to signing fresh terms, the defender would have been able to sign for the Germans on a Bosman next summer as his previous contract expires in a year's time. However, shrewd Hearts officials have ensured they will stand to make money from any future transfer.
Goncalves, who joined Hearts in January 2006 from FC Thun for a reputed £300,000, was the subject of a failed £1.3million bid from Spanish side Celta Vigo last summer.
Hearts have refused to divulge the finer details of Goncalves' move but are likely to be looking to recoup close to £1m if Nuremberg want to sign him on permanent terms.
Hearts negotiated a similar deal with West Brom last season when they allowed Roman Bednar to join the Baggies on loan. Tony Mowbray's side recently invoked a clause to buy the Czech striker for £2.3m
Meanwhile, Laryea Kingston insists the Hearts players will give their full backing to whoever the club's majority shareholder Vladimir Romanov installs as manager.
"It is up to Mr Romanov to decide who he wants to bring in," the midfielder said.
"He is the boss but we are ready to play for whoever that may be."
The full article contains 295 words and appears in The Scotsman newspaper.
