A handful of loan players will be on their way. Although Hibs still hope to lure Dan Barlaser back to Easter Road, with the Middlesbrough midfielder about to become a free agent in a matter of weeks.
Among those who actually count Hibs as their parent club, meanwhile, Martin Boyle’s departure has already been confirmed. Elie Youan will be making his long-trailed exit, too.
And then there are the seven players about to head into the final season on their multi-year contracts. Sometimes, but not always, a tricky time for club and employee.
Overall, after several hard transfer windows of clearing out, cleaning up, trimming and then reinforcing in key areas, head coach David Gray and sporting director Malky Mackay would appear to have built a squad boasting stability and flexibility. Even if not every member of the group is exactly where they want/need to be in terms of commitment and security, there aren’t many alarms going off. Not yet, at least.
With this season still building towards a crescendo, the football department out of East Mains are already planning for next year. Here’s a complete breakdown of what they’ll have to work with, heading into the summer.

5. Dan Barlaser - Summer 2026
Loan deal expires at the end of the season. But so does his contract with Middlesbrough. Will he be back at Easter Road as a free agent signing next season? Talks are ongoing. | SNS Group

6. Ante Suto - Summer 2028/29
Already a cult hero after arriving late in the January window, the Socceroos hopeful is under contract until 2028, with a further one-year option included in the deal. Has embraced the physicality of the Scottish game. | SNS Group

7. Joe Newell - Summer 2027
Just getting fit has been a priority for the club captain, who has endured a horrific time - including multiple surgeries - over the past year. Will head into his final guaranteed year as a Hibee with a full pre-season under his belt, hopefully. | SNS Group

8. Kai Andrews - Summer 2026
Loan deal with Coventry expires in a matter of weeks. Midfielder has made an impact despite limited game time since his January arrival. What next? | SNS Group

