Hibs star edges closer to transfer exit as Leicester City provide update on pursuit of Easter Road ace
Hibs are set to lose a reliable star to the Foxes.
Warren O’Hora is finalising a late summer transfer exit from Hibs to Leicester City.
The League One club have moved to sign the Irishman in a switch that will reunite him with former Rangers head coach Russell Martin, who worked with the centre-back previously at MK Dons. It will be a blow for Hibs boss David Gray prior to Scotland’s transfer window shutting at 5pm on Thursday, ahead of the Edinburgh derby at Easter Road against Hearts later that evening.
England’s window shuts late on Tuesday night and the Foxes have moved on their deadline day to seal a last-minute deal for O’Hora. He joined Hibs from MK Dons in 2024 and has been a consistent performer across his 85 appearances for the Premiership club who are now likely to hunt a replacement. Rocky Bushiri is already a long-term absentee in defence with Jason Kerr, Grant Hanley and Jack Iredale amongst remaining natural options, with left-back Jordan Obita also capable of playing central defence. Former Rangers midfielder John Lundstram is due to join O'Hora at Leicester with his deal terminated at Turkish side Trabzonspor.
What have Hibs said about selling Warren O’Hora to Leicester City?
Speaking to BBC Leicester after a 2-0 win over Plymouth Argyle, Foxes boss Russell Martin said: "They are two men with a bit of experience that will definitely help the young group we have. Another midfield option as well, which we need. Because tonight, if you look at the bench, I don't think there's a midfielder on it. So, yeah, they both help.
“They've won things. They've played good levels. They're big characters. I worked with Warren before so I know him, and he's done the work before, so that helps a lot. And with John, he's won titles. He's been promoted. He's so hungry. He got promoted to the Premier League last year, right? So, for us to get him is a big coup, I think. He wants to be here. I'm really happy with it. We'll have to wait and see.
“Obviously it can be tight and all that on deadline day but I expect both to be in training tomorrow, hopefully. I'm really happy for everyone. The fans, the staff, the players, I'm really delighted. I think we deserved to win. Also, I'm going to be really demanding of the players because I didn't like the ending of the game.
Speaking after Sunday’s 2-1 league win at Dundee that precedes the derby clash versus the Jambos, Gray said: “We're getting very close to the end of this window now, so I would expect there to be speculation. As always, we are actively looking, we're actively being ready for whatever comes. But at this moment in time, I'm certainly not looking to lose anybody. But at the same time, everyone's got valuations and if it's the right thing for everybody involved, who knows. But whilst that window's open, you need to be ready and we certainly will be."