Hibs sign free agent ex-Rangers star who once cost £11m after 'immediate impression'

The 15-times capped Wales international has agreed a contract until the end of the season with the Easter Road club holding the option to extend it for a further year.

Matondo has been without a club since departing Norwegian side SK Brann in August. He joined Hibs for their warm-weather training camp in La Manga last week and was subsequently offered a deal.

The 26-year-old becomes Hibs' first signing under new head coach Marink Reedijk, who begins his tenure away to Dundee United on Saturday after replacing David Gray in the dugout.

“I’m really pleased to welcome Rabbi to Hibernian FC," Reedijk said. "He made an immediate impression during our time in La Manga and has shown a great attitude, strong application, and a real willingness to learn and adapt.

"Rabbi gives us pace, directness and a real threat in wide areas, while also bringing a positive personality into the dressing room. He has settled in quickly, and we are looking forward to working with him and seeing the impact he can make.”

Matondo made an £11million move from Manchester City to Schalke in 2019 before completing a cut-price transfer to Rangers in 2022.

He spent nearly four injury-disrupted years at Ibrox, making 70 appearances and scoring eight goals. He left Rangers in March this year to sign for SK Brann but lasted less than six months in Norway before his contract was mutually terminated after limited game-time.

Hibs sporting director Malky Mackay added: “Rabbi is an experienced player with real quality, and adding someone of his profile is an important boost for us at this stage of the season.

“Over the last few weeks, we have had the chance to see him up close and he has shown the attributes that can make a difference for us. He has connected well with the players, settled into the environment, and shown a clear desire to be here and contribute. We wish him every success during his time at the Club.”