James Penrice, the 26-year-old left-back for Heart of Midlothian, is on the brink of a significant career move as AEK Athens has made a compelling transfer offer. This move comes after Penrice's notable performance in the Scottish Premiership, despite Hearts' challenging season.

Career Overview

Penrice began his professional journey with Partick Thistle and later moved to Livingston on a permanent deal in 2021. His performances at Livingston caught the attention of Hearts, leading to his signing last year. His adaptability and defensive skills have been crucial for Hearts, even as the team struggled to secure a higher position in the league.

The Transfer Deal

AEK Athens, a prominent club in the Greek Super League, has shown keen interest in Penrice. The deal, which could be finalized within the next 24 hours, hinges on the agreement of personal terms between Penrice and the Greek club. This transfer not only signifies a new chapter for Penrice but also highlights the growing trend of Scottish players moving to Greek football.

Impact on Hearts and AEK Athens

For Hearts, this transfer could be a strategic move to restructure their squad following a disappointing season. On the other hand, AEK Athens, which finished fourth in the Greek top flight, sees Penrice as a valuable addition to bolster their defensive lineup.

Related Transfers

This move follows the recent transfer of Greg Taylor from Celtic to PAOK, indicating a growing interest in Scottish players within the Greek football scene. Such transfers not only enhance the players' careers but also strengthen the ties between Scottish and Greek football.

For more updates on this transfer and other football news, stay tuned to our Hearts page and the BBC Sport app.