Kenneth Vargas, born on 17 April 2002 in Costa Rica, is a footballer now approaching his 23rd year. Vargas primarily fills the role of right winger for Hearts, his 5ft 10in (1.78m) stature and 11st 9lb (74kg) weight allowing for an impressive presence on the field. He is identifiable by his chosen number 77 jersey. In addition to his club representation, Vargas has had the honour of representing his national team, Costa Rica.
If we delve into the details of his market value, according to Transfermarkt, we are looking in the vicinity of a sum of £800k. His current contract with Hearts is thoroughly tied up, remaining in effect until the 30th June 2029, with over 4 years left.
Going back to his initial entry into professional football, we find Vargas joining Herediano in the Costa Rican Primera División in January 2020. His tenure there proved fruitful as his debut season, 2020-2021, saw him step onto the field for the first team on 14 occasions and secure two goals. He upped his performance in the next season (2021-2022), featuring in the first team for no less than 41 matches and contributing a solid ten goals.
Change was afoot come August 2023, Vargas took a leap of faith onto international waters, taking up a loan offer to transfer from his Costa Rican club Herediano, to the well-regarded Hearts in the Scottish Premiership. The 2023-2024 season at Hearts saw Vargas hold his own in his new milieu, making 33 first team appearances and notching up six goals. Updates from the ongoing season (2024-2025) show him keeping up a solid performance with 27 already appearances and four goals to his name.
It didn't take Heart's management long to see the potential, and they secured his talents from Herediano, this time on a permanent deal in July 2024. That first season (2023-2024), which was initially on loan, included 33 first team appearances, with Vargas making his mark by scoring six goals. He has continued his solid progress in the current season (2024-2025) with 27 appearances so far and four goals in his tally.
On the international stage, Vargas has made his mark as well. His venture in the football sphere has seen him start the League Cup 2024-2025 for Hearts just once, feature in the Scottish Cup 2024-2025 for Hearts with two starts, and one appearance from the bench. He also made an appearance from the bench for Costa Rica in the World Cup Qualifiers North & Central America 2024-2026. His European outings include starting twice in the Europa League Qualifiers 2024-2025 for Hearts, and making three starts and three appearances as a substitute in the Conference League 2024-2025 for Hearts.
