Hearts and Hibernian Join Race for English League One Star

Scottish Premiership rivals Hearts and Hibernian are monitoring Wigan Athletic youngster Tobias Brenan after his impressive breakthrough in League One.

The 19-year-old midfielder has made just six senior appearances for the Latics but is already attracting attention from both sides of Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Eyes on Brenan

Brenan only joined Wigan from Oxford United’s youth set-up last season but has risen quickly under manager Ryan Lowe. After catching the eye in the club’s Under-21s, he was handed his senior debut in a 3–1 win against Northampton Town and delivered a composed performance that earned a standing ovation when substituted.

His ability to operate both as a holding midfielder and further forward has not gone unnoticed. According to reports, Championship sides Swansea City, Blackburn Rovers and Preston North End have all shown interest, but it is the presence of Hearts and Hibs among the admirers that could set up a fascinating tug-of-war north of the border.

Hearts and Hibs in the Market

Both Edinburgh clubs are keen to bolster their midfield options. Hearts, who remain ambitious in their push for consistency in domestic and European competition, see Brenan as a long-term prospect who could thrive in the Scottish Premiership’s physical but technically demanding environment. Hibs, meanwhile, are building a squad with younger talent at its core, and the teenager’s versatility would be a valuable addition at Easter Road.

Wigan will be reluctant to lose Brenan so early in his development, particularly after investing in his progress, but Scottish clubs have shown in recent years that they can lure English-based prospects with the promise of first-team football and European exposure.

Site Opinion

For Hearts and Hibs, chasing a teenager still making his way at Wigan represents smart recruitment thinking. Both clubs are seeking players with resale value and potential to grow into the Premiership environment. Brenan may be raw, but his maturity on debut and willingness to learn mark him out as a player with the right attributes to succeed in Scotland.

If either Edinburgh side can move quickly, they could secure a bargain who fits the profile of a modern, dynamic midfielder.