FK Vardar have drawn a clear financial line around Rogers Mato as the race for the Ugandan forward begins to heat up across Europe. The Macedonian league leaders have officially set a €1.5 million release figure for the 22-year-old, a move designed to tighten their grip on one of the winter window’s most sought-after attacking talents.
A source close to the player told Footy-Africa that Mato is aware of the growing attention but has left his future firmly in his club’s hands.
“Rogers knows there is strong interest and that clubs from bigger leagues are watching him closely,” the source exclusively told Footy-Africa. “But the reality is that Vardar are in control. If they decide to let him go, the door is open, if they don’t, then he stays. The interest is real and it’s serious, but the final call belongs to the club.”
Vardar raise asking price for Rogers Mato as European interest heats up
In a brief but firm statement, the Skopje-based club confirmed the decision after receiving multiple approaches from abroad:
“FK Vardar AD informs the public that, due to increased interest from several foreign clubs in our player Rogers Kassim Mato, the Club’s Management has decided to set a buyout clause in the amount of €1,500,000.”
The announcement comes at a time when Mato’s stock has never been higher. The Uganda international has been unstoppable this season, firing 12 league goals to sit joint-top of the Macedonian scoring charts while adding three more in UEFA Conference League qualifying. That 15-goal haul from just 17 appearances has made him one of the most lethal finishers anywhere in the Balkans.
Scottish Premiership side Heart of Midlothian have been among the most aggressive suitors so far. An opening offer of around €350,000 was swiftly rejected by Vardar, but sources indicate Hearts remain undeterred as they search for attacking reinforcements capable of driving a title challenge against Celtic and Rangers.
Trabzonspor have also emerged as serious admirers. The Turkish Super Lig outfit are keeping close tabs on Mato’s situation and are believed to be considering a formal move as they look to sharpen their frontline during the January window.
Trabzonspor enter race for Rogers Mato as Hearts press on despite rejected bid
Despite the mounting interest, Vardar are in no rush to sell. Mato is a key pillar of their push for domestic glory, and his contract, which runs until the summer of 2026, has reportedly already been quietly upgraded, a move that has only strengthened the club’s negotiating position.
With Hearts pushing, Trabzonspor circling and Vardar holding all the leverage, one thing is clear: any club hoping to land one of Africa’s most in-form young forwards will have to dig deep to meet the €1.5 million price tag now placed on his head.
