Hibs loanee 'attracting interest' from Cardiff City as race to sign defender hots up

20-year-old Premier League academy graduate has attracted increasing attention following Hibs stint

Hibs loanee Will Fish has been enjoying an impressive stint at Easter Road this season and as such has been attracting the eyes of recruiters elsewhere in Britain.

The Manchester United defender came through Old Trafford's academy and was originally sent out on loan to Stockport County before being sent north of the border ahead of the 2022/23 season. The centre-back has featured in England's Under 17, 18 and 19 squads and has enjoyed 28 appearances for the Hibees so far this season already.

Fish has been a key part of Nick Montgomery's set-up and previously featured for Lee Johnson in all five UEFA Europa Conference League qualifiers. He is already confirmed to remain in Leith for the remainder of the season but several clubs, including Championship side Cardiff are reportedly showing interest in signing him on a permanent basis this summer.

Will Fish celebrates scoring his only goal for the Hibees vs Aberdeen

According to reports from The Athletic, Fish could enjoy a move to the EFL second tier of football when his contract at United expires at the end of the season.

This is not the first time Fish has caught the eye of transfer speculation and it was reported by Edinburgh News before Christmas that the Hibs boss would love to land the defender on a longer term deal. Speaking in November, Monty admitted: "I would love to keep Will, not just this season but on a permanent deal. The kid is still just 20 years old, and he’s growing every week. I think his performances belie his age. He plays like a seasoned professional."

At the time, Fish declared his commitment to the Hibees but with an offer from a Championship side in the mix, it remains to be seen whether the permanent deal can be sorted.

Cardiff City currently sit 13th in the league with 11 wins from their 27 fixtures while Hibs sit sixth in the Premiership, soon to take on Forfar FC in the fourth round of the Scottish Cup.