Hibernian have moved swiftly to secure one of Irish football’s brightest prospects, signing winger Owen Elding from Sligo Rovers for an undisclosed fee. The 19-year-old has penned a four-and-a-half-year deal at Easter Road, choosing the Scottish Premiership side despite significant European interest. The timing proves crucial as speculation grows over Scotland forward Kieron Bowie’s potential departure to Serie A. According to Bbc.com.
Hibs land Irish sensation Elding as Bowie exit speculation intensifies
The capture of Owen Elding represents a significant coup for Hibernian, with the teenager having been crowned the Professional Footballers Association of Ireland young player of the year for 2025. The club moved decisively to secure his signature ahead of several European rivals, with Austrian side Sturm Graz reportedly among those keen on the highly-rated forward.
Elding’s impressive statistics from last season demonstrate why he attracted such widespread interest. The 19-year-old delivered 16 goals and five assists in 38 matches for Sligo Rovers, earning recognition as the club’s 2025 Player of the Year alongside his inclusion in the PFA Ireland Team of the Year.
Manager David Gray expressed his excitement about the acquisition, highlighting the player’s diverse skill set and physical attributes. “He has done incredibly well for such a young age – he has a range of attributes and a strong physical presence up front,” Gray explained. The Hibs boss emphasised the player’s experience despite his youth, noting: “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.”
The signing arrives at a pivotal moment for Hibernian, with uncertainty surrounding the future of Scotland forward Kieron Bowie. Serie A club Hellas Verona had a bid rejected earlier this week for the striker and are expected to return with an improved offer. Gray has adopted a patient approach with Elding, stating there is “no pressure in terms of hitting the ground running and expecting big things” as the youngster adapts to Scottish football.
