Heart of Midlothian have announced their first signing of the season with the arrival of James Penrice.

The 25-year-old, who departed Livingston at the end of the season, has signed a three-year deal.

Penrice is one of four players to have agreed to a pre-contract ahead of the transfer window opening. He is set to be joined by Blair Spittal, Yan Dhanda and goalkeeper Ryan Fulton.

A versatile defender, he can play at left-back, wing-back, central midfield and as a winger.

READ MORE: What Hearts can expect from James Penrice: Technique, drive, bags of potential

“We’re delighted to get James signed up," Steven Naismith told the club's official site. “He’s someone who knows the domestic game well and has had to work really hard to get to where he is today.

“James has bags of talent, he’s got a great engine and he’s going to provide us with options. He’ll be an asset for us and he’s at a great age where there’s even more to come. We can develop him further and help him to reach new levels.”

Penrice played youth football at Livingston and then Partick Thistle where he emerged as a first-team player, aided by loan spells at East Fife and Livi.

He would return to West Lothian under David Martindale and made 94 appearances across the past three seasons gaining plenty of Premiership experience.