Hibs confirm Russian interest

Hibernian have confirmed Lokomotiv Moscow's interest in Garry O'Connor.

The 22-year-old was the subject of interest in January - but now it appears the Russians have renewed their bid for him.

Hibs have now admitted that they might not be able to stand in O'Connor's way should he want to move to the Russian capital.

"One of the reasons the club are prepared to speak with them is that this could be a life-changing move for Garry," said a club spokesman.

"We are not talking about him moving from one Scottish team to another and doubling his wages.

"The figures quoted in the newspapers (£16,000 per week) are accurate and indeed perhaps even the bottom line.

"It is Premiership-type wages we are speaking about and Garry could become a millionaire.

"So on that basis we have decided to speak with Lokomotiv as opposed to just knocking them back. Garry has expressed his interest in exploring the situation.

"Fee negotiations have been going on for a while and the level is approaching our evaluation of the player.

"We are now waiting on them coming back with a formal offer. We still have a couple of weeks before their transfer window closes so there is no rush."