Goncalves in Bavarian link

GERMAN second division strugglers FC Ingolstadt are attempting to lure the former Hearts defender Jose Goncalves to Bavaria, writes Barry anderson.

The Portuguese remains a free agent after leaving Tynecastle at the end of last season. He has been unable to secure a club despite contract talks with Rangers and interest from England.

Ingolstadt, currently bottom of the 2.Bundesliga, are hopeful Goncalves will accept their overtures but the 24-year-old is not bound by transfer window regulations having left Hearts on freedom of contract.

He played in Germany's second tier with FC Nuremberg during season 2008/09 after agreeing a loan move from Tynecastle. It remains to be seen if he is willing to return there as he has made it clear he would prefer top-flight football to advance his career.