Hibs beat 'several European clubs' to signing of 'unbelievable talent' amid David Gray delight

The 19-year-old Englishman has signed a four-and-a-half year contract until 2030, with Hibs paying an initial fee of £350,000 to the League of Ireland Premier League club.

A striker who can also play wide, Elding is the belated first January arrival at Easter Road with more new faces expected ahead of Monday's transfer deadline.

Hibs claim the 6ft 2in teenager chose to sign for them "over significant interest from several other European clubs."

Elding scored 16 goals and provided five assists in 38 matches for Sligo across the 2025 season. He was named PFA Ireland Young Player of the Year, Sligo Rovers’ Player of the Year, and was included in the PFA Ireland Team of the Year.

Hibs head coach David Gray expressed delight over the capture of "a really exciting player who has demonstrated his ability to score plenty of goals at a competitive level at a very young age."

Gray added: “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."

The signing of Elding comes amid reports that Hibs striker Kieron Bowie is on the verge of being sold to Serie A side Hellas Verona for £5million.

Hibs 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."

Sligo boss John Russell has also backed the player to be a huge hit at Easter Road.

"I think when you've got a player of his talent and ability and what he's shown last year, you knew there was always a chance you were going to lose him, it was just when," Russell said.

"Owen is a fantastic player and I think this is a good move for him, a good level where he can go and play. And then I think he can probably go to another level again. He's an unbelievable talent and I wish him the best.”