Hibernian complete signing of Austrian goalkeeper Raphael Sallinger

Hibs have announced the signing of Austrian goalkeeper Raphael Sallinger from TSV Hartberg.

The 6ft 5″ goalkeeper has signed a three-year deal at Easter Road, subject to international clearance.

Sallinger comes into the Hibs squad to challenge Jordan Smith for a starting spot, after Max Boruc and Josef Bursik left at the end of the Premiership season.

The 29-year-old played 31 times for Hartberg in the Austrian Bundesliga this season, and was also ever-present as the team made a run to the cup final, where they were narrowly defeated by Wolfsberger AC.

Hibernian head coach David Gray welcomed the signing, saying: “We’re really pleased to bring Raphael to the Football Club.

“He’s a talented goalkeeper that has a number of positive attributes, and he performed excellently in the Austrian Bundesliga last season.

“He will provide healthy competition in the goalkeeping department, which will benefit him and Jordan Smith.

“My coaching staff and I look forward to working with him.”

Sporting Director Malky Mackay added: “Raphael is someone we’ve been tracking for a long period of time, so we’re delighted to get the deal over the line.

“With two goalkeepers departing this summer, we knew we needed reinforcements in that area. Now with Raphael and Jordan Smith, we have a good level of competition in the goalkeeping department.

“We look forward to seeing him join the group when the players return later this month.”

Sallinger is the second new signing for next season, after Jamie McGrath committed to the club after leaving Aberdeen.