Hibs snatch defender Van Zanten

Hibernian are poised to sign defender David van Zanten from St Mirren on a three-year deal.

Dublin-born van Zanten was previously on the books at Celtic before signing for St Mirren in 2003.

Hibs boss Mixu Paatelainen was a team-mate of the 25-year-old during his stint at Love Street as a player.

"David was a player I admired when I worked with him and I look at him as a great prospect for Hibernian football club," he told BBC Sport.

St Mirren manager Gus MacPherson had been expecting the full-back to move on after van Zanten stalled on the offer of a new deal.

"David has done really well in his time here," he told the club website.

"He has probably been one of our more consistent players and his present injury must be close to the longest amount of time he has been out of action.

"It's unfortunate for us that he has decided to play elsewhere next season but I have no doubt he will leave with fond memories of his time here."

RELATED INTERNET LINKS:
St Mirren fans' views on My Sport
BBC Where I Live - Scotland
Paisley weather
BBC Sport - Bells Scottish Leagues
St Mirren
The BBC is not responsible for the content of external internet sites