Hibernian have completed the loan signing of 20-year-old striker Nathan Lowe from Stoke City, with manager David Gray hailing the 6ft 3in frontman as a 'natural goalscorer'. Lowe becomes the fourth summer arrival at Easter Road, joining Jason Kerr, Callum Wright and Azeem Abdulai in strengthening David Gray's squad.
Proven goalscoring record at young age
Despite his youth, Lowe has already amassed 31 senior goals in his career. He scored two Championship goals for Stoke before a loan spell at Walsall, where he netted 18 times and provided seven assists in League Two, earning the league's Young Player of the Year award. Last season, he added 11 goals across stints at Stockport County and Wycombe Wanderers in League One.
An England U19 international, Lowe is expected to fill the void left by Kieron Bowie, who moved to Hellas Verona for £6m in January. Gray expressed his delight at the signing, stating: 'I’m really pleased to add Nathan to the group as we continue to build for next season. We have been looking to add a player with his attributes to the squad, and he brings a great energy and enthusiasm about his play, as well as a physical presence. He is a natural goalscorer, and he has proven that he can score a range of different types of goals.'
Experience beyond his years
Gray also highlighted Lowe's experience, noting: 'He has good experience too, having already played a substantial amount of games at a competitive level despite his young age. I am looking forward to working with him, and we’re delighted to bring him into the building ahead of our first competitive game of the season later this month.'
Sporting director Malky Mackay echoed Gray's sentiments, describing Lowe as a 'young striker with real talent' who fits the profile Hibs were seeking. Mackay said: 'He’s a young striker with real talent and has an impressive record of both appearances and goals in the English Football League. He fits exactly the type of profile we are looking to add to the squad, particularly in the forward areas. Nathan is hungry to play, he wants to test himself in the Scottish Premiership, and he has all the attributes to be a success here at Easter Road. I’d like to thank everyone at Stoke City for their support in getting this deal over the line.'
Impact on Hibs' attack
Lowe's arrival is seen as a key addition to Hibs' forward line, which struggled after Bowie's departure. With his physical presence and proven scoring ability across multiple leagues, the club hopes he can make an immediate impact in the Scottish Premiership. Hibs have already bolstered their defence and midfield with Kerr, Wright and Abdulai, and Lowe completes the summer recruitment drive as they prepare for the new season.
