Dylan Vente leaves Hibernian to join PEC Zwolle on season-long loan

Hibernian striker Dylan Vente has moved to Dutch side PEC Zwolle on a season-long loan.

Vente has been given the chance to move for regular first team action as he isn’t part of head coach David Gray’s long-term plan.

The Easter Road side have been busy recruiting new forwards for the season ahead, with Kieron Bowie, Mykhola Kukharevych and Junior Hoilett all added to the attacking options over recent weeks.

Vente moved to Scotland last summer after a goal-laden spell at Roda JC. He joined then-manager Lee Johnson’s side on a three-year deal, with Hibs paying a significant six-figure fee.

The striker made a quick start, scoring against Luzern in the Europa Conference League qualifiers. However, Hibs struggled throughout the season and Vente failed to impress overall.

He scored 11 times in 43 appearances under Johnson, successor Nick Montgomery and then Gray as Hibs endured a turbulent season that saw them finish in the bottom six.

“Dylan is a player that I’ve really enjoyed working with every day because of his professionalism and desire to get better,” Gray said.

“He has undoubted quality, but at this moment in time, it just hasn’t quite worked out for Dylan. His move provides an opportunity to go home and hopefully start playing regularly with a smile on his face again. I wish him all the best for the rest of the season.”

Hibernian FC’s sporting director Malky Mackay added: “There’s been a lot of interest in Dylan over the summer and after serious consideration from all parties, we believe this is the right move for him at this time.

“The Eredivisie is recognised as one of the top leagues in the world, and this gives Dylan a chance to concentrate on his game and remind people what he’s capable of.

“Everyone at the club will be keeping a keen eye on Dylan, and wish him all the best for his loan with PEC Zwolle.”