Hibs transfer window analysis: Planning for future but first-team concerns remain

The reality was that nearly an entire new team of players had arrived at Easter Road over the course of the previous 31 days, while a handful had left as well.

Granted not all the new faces are ready to step into the first team but there was a flurry of early business as Rocky Bushiri, Harry Clarke, Ewan Henderson, Elias Melkersen and Demetri Mitchell signed on, with Chris Mueller’s contract kicking in following his pre-contract agreement in the summer.

But it was the departure of the talismanic Martin Boyle that made the biggest impact. It’s been a while since Hibs have lost such a key player in a transfer window. There have been links and rumours previously surrounding the likes of Josh Doig, Kevin Nisbet and Ryan Porteous, but the Easter Road side always seemed to hold onto their prized possessions.

Not this time, however, with Boyle's departure leaving Hibs without their top scorer; their talisman.

There have been a number of signings with a view to strengthening the development squad. This will be a team in between the under-18s and the first team aimed at bridging the gap between the club’s academy and the first-team squads.

Runar Hauge is expected to start off in this team, while it sounds as though Melkersen may also play some second-string games as he adapts to Scottish football. Allan Delferrière from Standard Liège has also been mentioned as an addition to this XI.

They will likely play a similar system to the senior team, meaning they will be in a good place to step up when required. It will also allow fringe first-teamers to get more game time and for the younger members of the development squad, playing alongside older, more experienced professionals will help to bring them on.

Bayern Munich and clubs in