New franchise Melbourne Heart have begun preparations for their entry to the A-League next season with the dual signings of Adelaide United midfielder Kristian Sarkies and Newcastle Jets captain Matt Thompson.

The 23-year-old Sarkies has signed a two-year deal with his hometown club that will commence in June 2010 and will bring to an end a three-year stint with the Reds after he joined from Melbourne Victory in 2007. "Adelaide have been superb for me, since the day I got here they have really looked after me on and off the park, and it has been a pleasure to be here," Sarkies said.

"I've experienced a lot of good things while I've been here, we made the Asian Champions League Final, we made an A-League Grand Final and I've really enjoyed my time here. But all good things must come to an end, and I've decided to go back to Melbourne next season."

The 27-year-old Thompson, who has played more A-League matches than any other player, made his senior international debut earlier in the year when he lined up for the Socceroos in its AFC Asian Cup qualifiers against Indonesia and Kuwait.

Meanwhile, another Melbourne Heart target, Simon Colosimo of Sydney FC, has decided to put his contract talks on hold until the end of the current campaign, despite reports in Australia stating he had signed for John van't Schip's side. "I have not signed a contract with Melbourne Heart," said the defender. "I have put all contract talk on hold until the end of the season.

"My focus is firmly on the field and I am really enjoying my football at Sydney FC and I am aiming to win a championship with the club. At this time of year there's often discussion around contracts, but my focus will be squarely on football and I won't be commenting on any further contract speculation."