Hearts have won the race against time to seal their capture of Kyosuke Tagawa in time for Saturday’s Premiership opener against St Johnstone.
The Japan internationalist flew to Edinburgh earlier this week after agreeing a switch from FC Tokyo in his homeland.
But the Jambos had been frustrated in their bid to secure a UK work permit and international clearance for the 24-year-old.
With their attempts to have the versatile attacker involved in the trip to Perth set to go down to the wire, the Gorgie outfit have finally been granted the necessary paperwork to finalise his transfer to Tynecastle.
Tagawa, who spent 18 months in Portugal with Santa Clara, has penned a four-year deal for an undisclosed six-figure fee, with the move still subject to international clearance from the football authorities.
He joins Yutaro Oda at Hearts following his compatriot’s move to Hearts in January.
Speaking to the Official Hearts Website, he said: "I’m very excited to be joining Hearts. My first days have been good, I got to see the stadium which was really impressive. I’ve heard all about the passion of the Hearts fans and I’m looking forward to playing games and getting started.
“I first heard of Hearts’ interest a few weeks ago. First of all, it’s always great to hear that a club wants me but especially when I found out it was Hearts who are such a big club with a fantastic history."
The 24-year-old, who holds two senior caps for Japan, says the chance to test himself in fresh surroundings played a key role in his decision to call Edinburgh home for the next four years.
Moving to a new country presents challenges, but Kyosuke knows he can lean on fellow countryman Yutaro Oda's advice on settling into life in a maroon jersey.
“Of course, it’s good to know that there’s another Japanese player here in Yutaro Oda," he continued. "I expect to be going to him for a lot of advice. Not just on the pitch when I’m playing but also away from the field as well. I’m keen to keep lifting the barrier for Japanese players as well with Yutaro.
“I’m feeling good, I’ve been training in the lead up to coming to Hearts. I can’t wait to get started and experience what Scottish football has to offer."
