Hibs approach Celtic over Anthony Stokes loan move

Hibs have contacted Celtic with a view to bringing Anthony Stokes on loan to Easter Road for the remainder of the season.

Anthony Stokes hasn't played for Celtic since August. Pic: Gordon Fraser

The 27-year-old, who played at Hibs between 2009 and 2010, is out of favour at Celtic Park, with Hoops boss Ronny Deila making the Republic of Ireland international available for a temporary move away from Glasgow.

Hibs head coach Alan Stubbs is keen to bring the former Arsenal, Sunderland and Falkirk player Edinburgh to help bolster their Ladbrokes Championship title charge and have opened talks with the Celtic board about a move.

Hibs also face competition from Inverness and Dundee United for his signature, but it is believed Hibs would be Stokes’ destination of choice.

Stokes hasn’t played a competitive match since Celtic’s 3-1 over Dundee United on August 22, but there is little doubt the Irishman would strengthen a Hibs attack that already boasts eight strikers in the squad.

Hibs would want to team Stokes up with top-scorer Jason Cummings, who has scored 16 goals this season so far. Alan Stubbs has revealed that there have been no offers for the 20-year-old during this transfer window and that none would be entertained by the Easter Road hierarchy.