Hearts have completed the loan signing of Costa Rican centre-forward Kenneth Vargas, subject to UK visa approval and international clearance.
The 21-year-old joins the Jambos on a season-long deal from Costa Rican top flight side Herediano, with an option to purchase outright.
As well as top level experience in his homeland, the exciting attacker has thrice been called up to the full Costa Rica national team, as recently as last month, and has scored goals for their U23s side.
A product of Herediano’s youth system, Kenneth cut his teeth on loan at Municipal Grecia, scoring five times in 28 appearances.
He would go on to become a regular back at Herediano, one of Costa Rica’s most successful clubs, helping them to the national cup final and the final of the league’s ‘Opening Tournament’ stage in 2022, as well as gaining CONCACAF Champions League experience.
Kenneth bagged 14 goals and seven assists in his 67 appearances during his 18-months in Herediano’s first team, and now brings his talents to Tynecastle Park.
Speaking to the Official Hearts Website, Head Coach Frankie McAvoy said: “We’re all very excited by Kenneth’s arrival.
“He’s a promising young talent with great experience for such a young player. He’ll bolster our forward areas and expand our depth in terms of attacking.
“He’s been in and met everyone, got a warm welcome and we’re looking forward to working with him.”
Technical Director Steven Naismith said: “Kenneth travelled to Scotland over the weekend so we’ll now start the process of bedding him into the group.
“He’s coming from halfway across the world so he may need time to settle in but we’ll make it as smooth a transition as possible for him.
“He got some great attributes and is clearly talented. We think we can improve him as a player and he can help take the team to where we want to go.”
Sporting Director Joe Savage said: “We’re really happy to get Kenneth over to Hearts.
“It’s another deal that’s taken time and a lot of hard work so my thanks go out to everyone involved, and we certainly believe Kenneth will be worth it.
“Central America is a new market for us but we’ve never been afraid to explore all of our options in the search for talent and value.
“I’m sure the fans will be excited as we are to watch Kenneth pull on the maroon jersey for the first time and show us what he can do.”
