Hearts to remain at Tynecastle

Heart of Midlothian FC

Aston Villa FC's former England midfielder Lee Hendrie has agreed a new two-and-a-half year contract tying him to the Premiership club until June 2007. The 27-year-old, who is a product of the Villa youth system, said manager David O'Leary had played a big part in his decision to sign: "Since David O'Leary has come here things have really picked up and he has got me playing some of my best football." Hendrie's previous deal had 18 months to run.

Portuguese SuperLiga side Rio Ave FC have sold midfielder Ricardo Nascimento to FC Seoul from the Korean Republic's K-League. Rio Ave have received an undisclosed fee in what the club's website described as "a very good deal for Rio Ave". Nascimento, 30, has signed a two-year contract.

Danish Superleague outfit AGF Århus have secured the services of the Odense BK midfielder Thomas Lindrup on a two-and-a-half year contract. The 28-year-old, who has cost AGF an undisclosed sum, said of the switch: "I was happy at OB and I am glad they got some money for me." The left-sided player made 74 appearances for OB following a free-transfer move from Brøndby IF.