Heidenheim have signed midfielder Julian Niehues on a contract until 2027 from next season onwards, the Bundesliga club said on Thursday. Niehues arrives on a free transfer from second division Kaiserslautern where his contract expires on June 30. Heidenheim are in their debut season in the top flight and 10 points above the danger zone in 11th place. They appear set to avoid relegation.