Hearts have signed the Costa Rican international forward Kenneth Vargas in a permanent transfer which will take effect this summer. The player has penned a five-year contract at Tynecastle Park after agreeing to convert his loan from CS Herediano into a full-time move.
Vargas has proven a popular player since arriving in Edinburgh last summer. His performances have improved throughout the campaign and he will now become a bona fide Jambo at the end of the season. After scoring seven times in 34 appearances in maroon – including three goals in his last six games – the 21-year-old is imposing himself in Scottish football.
Hearts head coach Steven Naismith gave an explanation of the significance of the transaction on the team’s official website. The Edinburgh team was always eager to use their permanent signing option for Vargas. “I’m really happy that we’ve been able to sort out Kenneth’s future and bring him in permanently,” Naismith remarked. Since coming here, he has had a significant influence. Not only does he have obvious talent, but he also has a genuine desire to learn and is a pleasure to have in the dressing room.
It’s crucial to keep in mind that Kenneth moved out of Costa Rica and away from his family for the first time with the first loan. Therefore, it’s impressive that he’s settled in and performed as well as he has, and as he and the squad continue to develop, I think we’ll see even more from him.”
Hearts’ sporting director, Joe Savage, stated that Vargas provides good value for an undisclosed sum. “We’re all really pleased to be able to get this deal done and bring Kenneth in as a permanent Hearts player,” he stated. “We don’t hesitate to scour other markets in search of emerging talent and good value, and Kenneth definitely meets both criteria.
“I’d like to thank Eduardo Pedemonte and Avid Sports for their help in getting this deal done and also the club for once again backing us and investing in the first team squad.”
Hearts confirmed Vargas’s move with a statement. The statement stated: “Kenneth Vargas has officially joined Heart of Midlothian as a permanent member. We are thrilled to confirm this.
“The immensely popular forward, pending Scottish FA permission, has signed a five-year contract and his loan move from Costa Rican team CS Herediano has been made permanent for an unknown fee. In his first season in Scotland, Kenneth, 21, has scored seven goals in 34 games while wearing maroon since joining the Jambos on loan back in August.
“In his native country, Kenneth’s efforts have been acknowledged, and he is currently a regular member of the entire Costa Rica national team. He entered the game as a substitute in their 3-1 Nations League play-off victory over Honduras on Saturday, guaranteeing them a spot in the Copa America this summer.
“Ahead of that major international tournament, Kenneth will check into Tynecastle Park as a fully-fledged Jambo and head coach Steven Naismith has stated his happiness at securing the long-term services of the lightning-fast forward.”
