Hearts have made their first signing of the January transfer window with the loan capture of Elton Kabangu.
Belgian forward Kabangu arrives from Union Saint-Gilloise on a deal until the end of the season as Neil Critchley wastes no time in reinforcing his attacking options at Tynecastle.
Kabangu is the first player to be recruited after Hearts signed a deal with Tony Bloom’s data firm Jamestown Analytics in November.
Jamestown also share a partnership with Union Saint-Gilloise so it was no surprise to see Hearts linked with signing Kabangu last month.
The 26-year-old – who can play as a striker or on the wing – is in need of some more game time having been provided a limited role this season at USG.
He’s started just once in the Jupiler Pro League and his only goal this campaign came in October against KAS Eupen in the Belgian Cup.
Now, Kabangu will aiming to revive his career with a successful stint at a struggling Hearts side.
Neil Critchley expresses where Kabangu will help Hearts
Neil Critchley was delighted to add the firepower to the Gorgie outfit.
And he told the club’s website: “It’s a boost to be able to bring a player of Elton’s pedigree in so soon after the transfer window opening.
“It’s an area of the pitch that we thought we needed to strengthen and Elton will bring a different dimension to our forward line.
“His experience of playing in the top leagues of Holland and Belgium will benefit the squad right now.
“He has the characteristics of a Hearts player and from speaking to him I know how hungry he is to come and be a success at Tynecastle.
“We very much look forward to working with him.”
Elton Kabangu’s first words as a Hearts player
Kabangu told Hearts TV: “Very excited. Also very excited to make my first goal here. It’s something that I’m looking for and I will work for it to make it happen.
“I’m a hungry guy. I run for the team, I work for the team, I like to score, I like to assist. I want to be important for the team. To give my best, that’s the most important for me.
“I’m just here to help the team and to try my best.