Hearts Secure Mato on Pre-Contract Amid Intense Transfer Scramble

EDINBURGH, 20 January 2026 – Heart of Midlothian have announced the signing of Ugandan forward Rogers Mato on a pre-contract agreement, with the 22-year-old set to join the Scottish Premiership leaders this summer. The deal, confirmed on 13 January, has triggered a frantic January transfer window saga, with Turkish side Trabzonspor and American club Sporting Kansas City also vying for his immediate signature.

The Pre-Contract Agreement

Mato, currently the top scorer in North Macedonia’s First Football League with 12 goals for FK Vardar Skopje, has committed his future to Hearts. The Edinburgh club described the winger as “one of Europe’s hottest properties”. The move will see the Ugandan international arrive at Tynecastle on a free transfer when his contract with Vardar expires, a significant coup for Derek McInnes’s title-chasing side.

January Transfer Turmoil

Despite the pre-contract, a fierce battle for Mato’s services this month is underway. Hearts had previously seen two bids, reported to be worth approximately £300,000 and £400,000, rejected by Vardar. The Macedonian champions are adamant they will not sell for less than a buy-out clause, reported to be between £600,000 and £1.3 million.

This stance has opened the door for other clubs. Turkish Super Lig outfit Trabzonspor have entered negotiations and are reportedly willing to meet Vardar’s valuation for an immediate transfer. In a bizarre twist, American Major League Soccer side Sporting Kansas City were also revealed to have made a substantial offer, with Vardar controversially publishing confidential documents related to the bid online.

Player Profile & Career Path

International Pedigree

Mato is an established figure for the Uganda Cranes, having made his senior debut in January 2022. He was part of the squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, scoring against Nigeria in the group stage. His international form, combined with his prolific club season, has been the catalyst for the current multi-club interest.

What Happens Next?

The situation remains fluid. While Mato has a legally binding agreement to join Hearts in July 2026, Vardar are incentivised to sell him this month to recieve a transfer fee. If Trabzonspor or another club meets the release clause, they could secure the player immediately, though he would still be obligated to honour his pre-contract with Hearts in the summer—a scenario that would likely require further negotiation and compensation.

Hearts manager Derek McInnes, while focused on maintaining his side’s league lead, will be watching developments closely, hoping his new attacking recruit can be secured without further complication.

Frequently Asked Questions

Has Rogers Mato signed for Hearts?

Yes. Mato has signed a pre-contract agreement with Heart of Midlothian, which means he has legally committed to joining the club on a free transfer when his current contract with FK Vardar expires in the summer of 2026.

Can another club still sign him now?

Yes, but it is complex. Another club (like Trabzonspor) could buy Mato from Vardar during the January 2026 transfer window if they pay the required fee. However, Mato would still be under contract to join Hearts in the summer. This would likely lead to a negotiation where the buying club pays additional compensation to Hearts to cancel the pre-contract.

Why did Vardar reject Hearts’ bids?

Vardar value Mato significantly higher than the initial bids, citing his importance as the league’s top scorer and a release clause in his contract. They believe the growing interest will drive his price up to their valuation.

What is Sporting Kansas City’s role in this?

Sporting KC submitted a transfer offer for Mato, reported to be around $1 million. Vardar controversially published details of this bid in an attempt to leverage the situation. However, Sporting KC have since confirmed Mato chose the pre-contract with Hearts and they are no longer in the running.