Hibernian confirm signing of teenage forward Owen Elding

Hibernian have signed teenage forward Owen Elding from Sligo Rovers.

The 19-year-old striker has put pen to paper on a four-and-a-half-year deal at the Easter Road club for an undisclosed fee.

He is David Gray’s first signing of the January transfer window as they look to push for a place in the top four.

The centre-forward, who can also play out wide, scored 16 goals and provided five assists in 38 matches for the League of Ireland Premier Division side across the 2025 season.

His performances saw him named PFA Ireland Young Player of the Year, Sligo Rovers’ Player of the Year, and included in the PFA Ireland Team of the Year.

Elding’s contract will keep him at Hibs until the summer of 2030.

Head Coach David Gray said: “Owen is a really exciting player who has demonstrated his ability to score plenty of goals at a competitive level at a very young age.

“During his time in Ireland, he has proved he is capable of scoring all kinds of goals and brings with him a range of fantastic attributes and a strong physical presence up front.

“He has a full pre-season under his belt, he’s got a positive, hard-working attitude and I am looking forward to working with him going forward.”

Sporting director, Malky Mackay added: “We’re delighted to get this deal over the line and welcome Owen to Hibernian FC.

“He is a really exciting young talent with a brilliant attitude and we are really pleased that he saw his long-term future at Hibs, despite having other offers.

“I would like to thank the Gordon Family for their backing, Sligo Rovers for their collaboration, and Owen’s family for their support throughout the process.

“Everyone at the Club is looking forward to working with Owen and we’re excited to see him make his mark in Scotland.”