Niklas Gunnarsson: Hibernian sign Valerenga defender on loan

Stubbs' side are three points behind Scottish Championship leaders Rangers

Hibernian have signed Norwegian defender Niklas Gunnarsson on loan from Valerenga until the end of the season.

The deal for the 24-year-old, who was loaned to Swedes Elfsborg last year, is subject to international clearance.

Hibs, who are third in the Scottish Championship, have already signed forward Chris Dagnall until the end of the current campaign.

"I am very pleased to have signed and am looking forward to getting started," Gunnarsson told the Hibs website.

"I know the team are in good form this season and hopefully I will be able to make the team and help us win promotion."

Gunnarsson began his career at Odd before moving to fellow Norwegian side Valerenga in 2014. He has made over 100 senior appearances.

Hibs have also enquired about the availability of Kilmarnock's teenage midfielder Greg Kiltie.

And head coach Alan Stubbs said: "We have been working hard on our January targets for a while now and it's great to have the two new players in so early in the window.

"We wanted to bring in a defender and striker and have done so within the first week of January.

"Niklas is strong and athletic and will provide valuable competition across the backline. He's comfortable on both sides and has played a good amount of football with Valerenga and Elfsborg over the last couple of years, so will be able to hit the ground running."