Hibs winger Jair Tavares has joined Motherwell on a season-long loan deal.

The Portuguese attacker had fallen down the pecking order at Easter Road after a mini-renaissance last season, and will spend the rest of the 2024/25 campaign at Fir Park. Jair joined Hibs from Benfica in summer 2022 after making several appearances for the Portuguese giants' B team, but was frozen out of the first-team setup at Hibs by former manager Lee Johnson.

The 23-year-old, under contract until 2026, was reintroduced to the fold following the appointment of Nick Montgomery but the arrival of several forward options in Kieron Bowie, Junior Hoilett and Nicky Cadden meant his opportunities under David Gray were likely to be limited.

“Jair hasn’t had the game-time he would’ve hoped for at this stage of his Hibs career," Gray told Hibs' official website. “He’s been good to work with and he works hard on his game every day. This loan gives him an opportunity to gain regular game-time, which will benefit him at this stage of his career. He will relish this opportunity, and I wish him all the best for the rest of the season.”

Sporting director Malky Mackay added that the move will be the best outcome for all involved. “We’re continuing to evolve the first team squad, and this move is a good one for all parties. We wish Jair all the best at Motherwell.”