Hibernian have signed former Newcastle United striker Dwight Gayle on a one-year deal, as head coach David Gray beefs up his attacking options.

The Scottish Premiership side had been keen to add another forward to the squad after Dylan Vente's loan exit to PEC Zwolle, but sporting director Malky Mackay insisted that any new recruits would have to be the right type of player, and not just someone 'looking to top up their pension'. 

Gayle, 34, last played for Derby County in England's League One, scoring three goals in six appearances following a 50-game spell with Stoke City. He can also count Dagenham & Redbridge, Peterborough United, Crystal Palace, and West Bromwich Albion among his former clubs in the EFL. 

Welcoming Gayle to Hibs, Gray said: “It’s great to be able to bring Dwight to the club. He’s performed at a top level throughout his career and has a real desire to show his abilities here in Scotland.

"He’s a different type of striker to what we currently have in the building. He’s a real penalty-box type of striker, a great finisher, and his experience will be of great benefit to us. I look forward to working with him.”

Sporting director Malky Mackay added: “We’ve been keen to add another striker to the first-team squad. We were aware of Dwight’s availability, and we’re delighted that he has the desire to test himself in Scottish football. He’s another good character to add to the group, and his experience will really benefit our young players. I look forward to seeing him in Hibs' green and white."

Gayle's arrival is not a reaction to the injury suffered by Kieron Bowie during international duty as Easter Road chiefs have been keen to add a different profile of striker to the squad since Vente's departure, with Bowie and fellow centre-forward Mykola Kukharevych both similar types of player. 

Hibs expect to receive the results of a scan on Bowie's hamstring sometime on Friday.