Hearts head coach Derek McInnes has expressed his delight after the club moved swiftly to secure the signing of Ugandan international forward Rogers Mato, describing the 22-year-old as an exciting attacking addition ahead of the season run-in.
The Edinburgh club have completed an initial loan deal for Mato from North Macedonian side FK Vardar until the end of the campaign, subject to international clearance and Scottish FA approval.
Hearts have also agreed terms on a permanent move, with the forward expected to sign a three-year contract at Tynecastle when his deal with Vardar expires in the summer.
Speaking to the Official Hearts Website, McInnes praised the club’s efficiency in finalising the deal and highlighted the qualities that attracted him to the player.
“It’s great work from the club to get Rogers in during this window and I’m really pleased that he’s here and ready to go,” McInnes said.
“He’s a livewire player, always looking to attack and cause the opposing defence problems.”
The Hearts boss also revealed that Mato has already settled well into his new environment, making a positive impression on his teammates and coaching staff.
“He’s been in to meet the boys and has made a good first impression, and we’re all looking forward to working with him,” he added.
Mato arrives in Scotland with an impressive résumé for his age. He is an established member of the Uganda Cranes, having earned 41 senior caps and scored eight international goals, including a vital strike at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals.
At club level, the forward has enjoyed a rapid rise. This season, he has been in prolific form for FK Vardar, scoring 12 goals in just 13 appearances to help propel the club to the top of the North Macedonian league. Prior to his time at Vardar, Mato also featured for fellow North Macedonian side Brera Strumica.
His European journey followed a strong grounding in Ugandan football, where he played for KCCA FC in the Uganda Premier League after coming through the ranks at Proline FC in the country’s lower divisions.
