Image source: bbc.com
Heart of Midlothian have agreed a pre-contract deal with Uganda forward Rogers Mato, securing the 22-year-old striker on a three-year contract from North Macedonian top-flight leaders Vardar. The prolific forward will join the Scottish Premiership leaders in July after his current contract expires.
Hearts Secure Pre-Contract Agreement With Prolific Uganda Forward Rogers Mato
The 22-year-old has been in exceptional form for Vardar this season, scoring 15 goals and contributing two assists in 17 appearances as his club leads the North Macedonian first division. Mato has agreed a three-year contract with Hearts that will commence in July following the expiry of his current deal with Vardar.
Mato has established himself as a key player for Uganda since earning his first international cap in 2022, scoring eight goals in 41 appearances for his country. The forward found the net in Uganda’s Africa Cup of Nations defeat by Nigeria last month, demonstrating his ability to perform on the continental stage.
The striker began his professional career in Uganda with Proline and KCCA before moving to Europe in 2023 with Turkish outfit Sanliurfaspor. He subsequently transferred to North Macedonia with AP Brera before making the switch to Vardar last year, where he has flourished as their leading goalscorer.
Vardar currently sit at the top of the North Macedonian first division, leading second-placed Struga by one point after 16 matches. Mato’s goalscoring form has been instrumental in their title challenge, with the forward establishing himself as one of the most prolific strikers in the league this season.
