Hibs sign Marko Ivezić from Holstein Kiel on three-year deal
DIRECT ANSWER: Hibernian FC have signed Serbian international defender Marko Ivezić from Holstein Kiel on a three-year deal, subject to international clearance and visa approval. The 24-year-old centre-back becomes Hibs' eighth summer signing and replaces Warren O'Hora, who joined Leicester City.
Hibernian moved quickly to address the gap left by Warren O'Hora's departure, securing Marko Ivezić from German side Holstein Kiel on Wednesday morning. Both clubs confirmed the transfer, with sporting director Malky Mackay declaring his joy over a player who has competed at the top level in the Bundesliga and on the international stage.
Key Takeaways
- Marko Ivezić joins Hibs on a three-year deal from Holstein Kiel, pending clearance and visa approval.
- The 24-year-old made 87 appearances for Kiel, including 23 in the Bundesliga during the 2024-25 season.
- Ivezić replaces Warren O'Hora and becomes David Gray's eighth summer signing.
- Malky Mackay praised Ivezić's top-level experience, physical profile, and versatility across the back line.
- Scotland's transfer deadline closes Thursday at 5pm, ahead of the Edinburgh derby against Hearts.
Who is Marko Ivezić?
Born in Belgrade, Ivezić began his senior career with FK Voždovac, making 71 appearances before joining Holstein Kiel in 2023. Standing 6ft 3in, the centre-back brings a strong physical presence and experience across Germany's top two divisions.
During his first season at Kiel, he was part of the side that secured promotion to the Bundesliga for the first time in the club's history. In the 2024-25 campaign, he made a further 23 appearances in the German top flight. Holstein Kiel managing director Olaf Rebbe said Ivezić helped shape the club's journey with his exemplary commitment and calm presence.
Ivezić has represented Serbia at under-21 and senior level, making his full international debut in a 2-1 victory over the United States.
Why did Hibs move for the Serbian defender?
Hibs lost reliable centre-back Warren O'Hora to Leicester City and needed a proven replacement before the transfer window closes. Ivezić offers Bundesliga pedigree and international experience at 24, an age head coach David Gray believes puts his best years ahead of him.
Gray said Ivezić brings a really good combination of physical defensive qualities and experience and is primed and ready to fit right into the squad. His versatility to play all along the back line adds depth to Gray's defensive options.
What did Malky Mackay say about the signing?
Mackay confirmed Hibs had been tracking Ivezić and expressed delight at landing a player of his calibre. He said Marko is a player that we have been tracking and we're delighted to bring a player of his quality and experience who has competed at the top level in the Bundesliga and on the international stage.
He highlighted Ivezić's strong physical profile and versatility, adding that Hibs are delighted he has committed his future to the club. For more on high-profile moves reshaping the Scottish game, see our Celebrity Breaking News hub.
What happens next for Hibs?
The deal remains subject to international clearance and visa approval. Scotland's transfer deadline day is Thursday, with the window shutting at 5pm on the same evening Hibs host Hearts in the Edinburgh derby.
Ivezić thanked Kiel upon his departure, saying the past three years meant a great deal to him and that saying goodbye was very difficult. Full details were confirmed by Edinburgh News.