Hibs sign winger Elding from Sligo Rovers

Hibernian have signed winger Owen Elding from League of Ireland Premier Division side Sligo Rovers for an undisclosed fee.

The 19-year-old, who was voted the Professional Footballers Association of Ireland young player of the year for 2025, has signed a four-and-a-half-year deal.

Elding scored 16 goals and provided five assists in 38 matches for Sligo Rovers last season.

Hibs say he opted for Easter Road ahead of "significant interest from several other European clubs", with Austrian side Strum Graz reported to be keen on Elding.

Manager David Gray says the young forward, who was Sligo's 2025 Player of the Year, has huge potential.

"He has done incredibly well for such a young age - he has a range of attributes and a strong physical presence up front," he said.

"He has played a lot of men's football already, has scored a variety of goals and I think he has got a really bright future.

"Certainly there is no pressure in terms of hitting the ground running and expecting big things. He is a young boy coming in and it is his first introduction to Scottish football, but he is certainly an exciting prospect."

Elding arrives at Easter Road with speculation growing over the future of Scotland forward Kieron Bowie.

Serie A club Hellas Verona had a bid rejected earlier this week for the forward and are expected to return with an improved offer.