Hibs could face a fight with an SPFL rival to land Will Fish for next season, according to a report.
Lee Johnson snapped up the Manchester United defender for the campaign last term and he impressed after finally breaking into the team at the midway point of the season. The Hibees were rocked in January by Ryan Porteous' exit for Watford and an injury to Rocky Bushiri but the 20-year-old slotted in and impressed his boss and supporters.
In all he made 22 apperances for the Leith club scoring three goals in the process as they secured fifth spot in the Scottish Premiership. Celtic's Scottish Cup triumph over Inverness meant that proved enough to land a shot at Europe in the Europa Conference League second qualifying round.
READ MORE: Hibs land Europa Conference League spot as Hearts handed Euro boost after Celtic Scottish Cup win
Sign up to Edinburgh Live newsletters for more headlines straight to your inbox
Johnson has stated a desire to secure returns for a number of his loan stars last season however, the Daily Mail report that Aberdeen could rival Hibs to land Fish on loan.
The Hoops' Hampden triumph also benefitted Barry Robson's men who are now in the Europa League play-off round and have the guaranteed fallback of European group stage football in the Europa Conference League up until Christmas - and the millions in the bank that comes with competing at that stage.
It remains to be seen whether United would be willing to sanction a further loan or would look to offload the stopper permanently with the report not stating either way.
Following the expiry of his loan in Leith, Fish wrote online: "Grateful for the opportunity to be able to play for this club, met some of the best people along the way. I wish everyone the best of luck for the future. Thankyou @HibernianFC "
READ NEXT:
- Hearts confirm pre-season return plan as Jambos prepare for European qualifying campaign
- Callum Paterson shuts down Hearts return with Scotland international keen to stay in England
- Ex-Hibs hero Jason Cummings bags hat-trick to seal A-League title with Central Coast Mariners
- Ex-Hibs star Josh Doig could be handed Serie A lifeline as Genoa 'interested' in Hellas Verona ace
- Chris Cadden faces 'significant' Hibs injury lay off as club also provide Jake Doyle-Hayes update