Hibernian have won the race for Irish defender Warren O'Hora, with the former MK Dons man signing a three-year deal with the Scottish Premiership side.

The 25-year-old, who began his career with Bohemians in Dublin, joined Brighton's academy before a loan move to Stadium MK led to a permanent move and he left the club at the end of the 2-2023/24 campaign after 160 appearances, most of them in England's League One. 

O'Hora has also been capped by the Republic of Ireland at Under-18 and Under-19 level. 

Speaking about the signing Hibs head coach David Gray said: "I’m delighted that we’ve been able to bring Warren to the club. As a defender he’s a brave, aggressive organiser, with great leadership qualities. He’s very comfortable on the ball and confident playing out from the back. We look forward to working with him.”

Sporting director Malky Mackay added: “It’s great to be able to welcome Warren to Hibs. When I came to the club, it was clear that we needed to strengthen at centre-half and introduce more leaders into the first-team group.

"Warren is a strong modern-day defender, a top professional, and is another good person to add to the dressing room. We look forward to seeing him in action."

O'Hora could be involved on Saturday when Hibs take on near-neighbours Edinburgh City at Meadowbank in their first pre-season friendly ahead of flying out to the Netherlands on Monday for a week-long training camp. 

Hibs are also interested in former Blackpool defender Marvin Ekpiteka, who is a free agent after four years and more than 100 appearances for the Bloomfield Road outfit. He featured against Hibs in the Seasiders' 3-0 friendly win in July last year and can also count Leyton Orient, East Thurrock United, Chelmsford City, and Concord Rangers among his former clubs. He was capped by Nigeria at Under-20 level and has also played for England C, the country's non-league national side.