Hibs snap up Genoa striker Pinau

Pinau has joined Hibs on a season-long loan from Genoa

Hibernian have signed 20-year-old forward Steve Pinau on a season-long loan from Serie A outfit Genoa.

Pinau recently signed a five-year contract with the Italians after starting his career at Monaco.

"Steven's an exciting player who has come through the youth ranks with France," Hibs manager Mixu Paatelainen told BBC Sport.

"He broke into the Monaco first team last season and I went to see him. He is quick and has excellent technique."

Pinau, who can play up front or wide on the right, turned out as a Hibs trialist in this month's friendly defeats to Middlesbrough and Wigan.

The Edinburgh club are awaiting international clearance to complete the transfer but that should arrive before Saturday's home game with Falkirk.

MY SPORT: DEBATE We just need options up front borderhibs

Hibs lost their season opener at Kilmarnock but Paatelainen was content with the level of performance.

"We created lots of chances and we paid the price for not taking them," he added. "But the goals will come.

"Maybe we need a lucky one to go in off someone's knee.

"We are fighting to get it right and the players are focus and fully committed."

Pinau is the fifth new arrival at Easter Road this summer and Paatelainen, who is hoping to offload a few players before the end of August, may yet move for more recruits.

"We are still looking at one or two areas and, if the right opportunities arise, we will act," he said.