Hibs strike deal for Swindon Town forward Harry McKirdy - but FIFA approval needed for transfer

Hibs have announced the signing of Swindon Town forward Harry McKirdy on a three-year deal – but the transfer requires FIFA approval with player and club facing an agonising wait for the move to be rubber-stamped after Swindon were late in filing paperwork.

McKirdy’s proposed move to Easter Road dominated transfer deadline day, with talks lasting for much of Thursday and rumours of negotiations hitting a stumbling block in the early evening.

But the move was always on as both sides attempted to thrash out a deal for the 25-year-old to leave Wiltshire for Edinburgh, with Hibs announcing the deal at 1.20am shortly after confirmation of loan moves for centre-back Will Fish of Manchester United and Troyes striker Mykola Kukharevych.

Hibs appear confident of getting the green light from world football’s governing body, but the saga may rumble on into next week.

McKirdy hit the headlines for the Robins after bagging 23 goals in 44 games last season following his move from Port Vale, and he was named in the League Two Team of the Year as well as scooping Swindon’s Player of the Year gong.

He was hit with a three-match ban and a £1500 fine for his actions after receiving a red card against Salford City last month. The forward was dismissed for two yellow cards but vented his fury in the tunnel and dressing room area and is said to have thrown a protein shake at a wall in the match officials’ dressing room which ended up soaking the referee’s change of clothes.

Able to play centrally or out wide, McKirdy is the 16th new first-team acquisition at Hibs this summer.

Manager Lee Johnson said: “We’re excited to bring Harry to Hibs, and we’re delighted that he chose to come here after interest from several different clubs.

Harry McKirdy has signed for Hibs - but the deal requires FIFA approval

“Everyone can see how well he’s been performing over the last 12-months or so and he’s a player that’s coming into the prime years of his career.

“He’s someone that shows his pitch personality and has a real desire to keep on improving. Alongside this, he also gives us extra options in the forward areas being able to play centrally and out wide. We can’t wait to get started with him.”