Hearts have completed a move for Kenneth Vargas.
The Costa Rican striker has joined on loan at Tynecastle, subject to the relevant approvals.
The 21-year-old arrives from Herediano, with the Jambos holding an option to buy at the end of the season.
The frontman has been called up to his national side on three occasions, and has experience of playing in the top flight in Costa Rica
✍️ 𝑽𝑨𝑹𝑮𝑨𝑺. 𝑰𝑺. 𝑯𝑬𝑹𝑬. 🤝 We are delighted to announce the loan signing of Costa Rican forward Kenneth Vargas, subject to UK visa approval and international clearance. Welcome, Kenneth 🙌
— Heart of Midlothian FC (@JamTarts) August 7, 2023
Vargas bagged 14 goals and seven assists in his 67 appearances during his 18-months in Herediano’s first team.
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.”
