Scottish Premiership leaders Heart of Midlothian have confirmed the signing of Ugandan forward Rogers Mato during the current transfer window.
In a statement published on the club’s official website, Hearts said the 22-year-old has joined the Edinburgh side on an initial loan deal from North Macedonian club FK Vardar until the end of the season, subject to international clearance and approval from the Scottish Football Association.
The club added that upon the expiry of Mato’s contract with Vardar at the end of the season, the forward will sign a permanent three-year deal with Hearts.
Mato arrives at Tynecastle in impressive form, having scored 12 goals in 13 games for Vardar, a run that has helped propel the club to the top of their domestic league.
At international level, Mato has already earned 41 caps for the Uganda Cranes, scoring eight goals. He was also among the scorers at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations finals.
Speaking to the official Hearts website, head coach Derek McInnes welcomed the signing, praising the forward’s attacking qualities.
“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.
“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.”
Mato will wear jersey number 74 and becomes the latest Ugandan to feature for Hearts, joining a list of players that includes David Obua, Tobby Sibbick and Uche Ikpeazu.
Hearts currently sit top of the Scottish Premiership table with 51 points, four ahead of rivals Rangers, who are on 47.
