Hibernian secure former Cesena striker Dominique Malonga

Dominique Malonga made his Serie A debut at Torino before moving to Cesena in 2009

Hibernian have signed striker Dominique Malonga on a two-year deal, following his release by Italian outfit Cesena.

The 25-year-old has been capped by France at under-19 level but has since elected to play for Congo.

Malonga started his professional career at Torino and also sampled life in Serie A with Cesena.

"I'm very happy to be here and to be given the opportunity to sign for Hibs - it's a great club," he told the Hibs website.

The striker, who was a youth player at French side Monaco and had a loan stint at Real Murcia in Spain, was able to join the Scottish Championship side outside the transfer window because he was a free agent.

"I've already played in France, Italy and Spain, so Scotland will be a new challenge for me and it's one that I'm looking forward to," he added.

"I've won promotion before in Italy, so I know what is necessary to make that happen."

Hibs forward Farid El Alagui could be out for six months after rupturing his Achilles tendon, and manager Alan Stubbs hopes Malonga can fill the void.

"We're delighted to be able to add Dominique to the squad - he's a player that we've been looking at for a few weeks," Stubbs said.

"He is technically very gifted, quick and he looks to get beyond defenders.

"The injury to Farid has since quickened the process up even more."