'Confident' new Hearts signing claims Lawrence Shankland jersey as Hibs confirm 28y/o departure

The 28-year-old has joined the Edinburgh club for an undisclosed fee from American second-tier side Rhode Island, where he scored 30 goals and provided 13 assists in 79 appearances over the past two and a half years.

Williams has been handed the number nine jersey vacated by Lawrence Shankland, who departed Hearts for Rangers in May.

The attacker is not eligible for Wednesday’s Conference League play-off away to Rapid Vienna but could come into contention for a debut in Saturday’s William Hill Premiership match at home to St Johnstone.

“It’s a dream come true for me,” Willaims told Hearts TV. “I’ve just wanted to take that big step for so many years and everything happened for me to do it now. I’m beyond blessed and happy to be here.

“I am very confident in my ability. Well rounded. I’ve got a lot of different tools in the tool box. I might not get it right all the time but I’ll give it 100 per cent every time.”

Meanwhile, Hibs midfielder Alasana Manneh has departed the club by mutual consent.

Formerly of the Barcelona academy, the Gambian international arrived at Easter Road from Odense in Denmark in January 2025 but was sent off on his debut against St Mirren the following month. He went on to make only nine appearancesin total.

Head coach David Gray said: “I would like to wish Alasana all the best for the future. He clearly hasn’t played as much football as he would’ve liked since joining the club, so this deal was best for all parties involved - as it allows him to explore other opportunities elsewhere. Everyone at the club wishes him the best of luck with the next steps in his playing career.”